by the same route

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by the same route" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to traveling or taking a path that is identical to one previously taken. Example: "After visiting the museum, we decided to return home by the same route we came."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We return by the same route to the car.

The Guardian - Travel

Your way back is by the same route.

The Guardian - Travel

Seagoing carriers bring imports from abroad by the same route.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Descend by the same route and enjoy the views of Little Langdale Tarn.

The Guardian - Travel

It's a movie that — even if you know that it will always end the same way, tragically — never takes you to that inevitable conclusion by the same route.

The New York Times

All the construction materials will be brought to the site by the same route used by the Victorian builders – railway wagon.

The Guardian

The union, in its Wednesday proposal, indicated its willingness to agree to such a draft, saying all amateur players should join baseball by the same route.

The New York Times - Sports

The relatively short distances make it feasible to walk a stage in the morning, returning by the same route in the afternoon.

Independent

It was another mile to the peak, where I snapped two rain-blurred photos of the marker and turned to descend by the same route.

The New York Times - Travel

The transaction completed, he returns by the same route, and with his new wealth buys a house and property that he eventually turns into a field of lilies for Hélène.

The New York Times

Undaunted by their total lack of climbing experience, they cut their teeth on routes in the UK, the Alps and in the greater ranges before climbing Everest by the same route taken by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a return journey or a repeated process, using "by the same route" clearly indicates that the exact path or method used previously is being followed again.

Common error

Ensure that "by the same route" is used to describe a physical path or course. Avoid using it when you mean "by the same method" or "by the same means" if a literal route isn't involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by the same route" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier. It describes the manner in which something is done, specifically indicating that a path or course is being retraced. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

52%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by the same route" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to indicate that a journey, process, or method is being repeated exactly as before. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, scientific literature, and general writing. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intent to follow an identical path or method, and consider alternatives like "via the same path" or "along the same way" for stylistic variation. While adaptable, it's crucial to maintain clarity and precision in its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

via the same path

Replaces "route" with "path", maintaining the meaning of following an identical course.

along the same way

Substitutes "route" with "way", emphasizing the manner of progression.

following the identical course

Uses more formal vocabulary to convey the same concept of duplicating a path.

taking the same road

A more literal alternative, focusing on a road as the route.

using the same procedure

Shifts the context to a procedural or methodological approach rather than a physical route.

retracing the original steps

Highlights the action of going back over previously taken steps.

in the same manner as before

Emphasizes the similarity in method or approach.

by the identical method

Emphasizes the use of the exact same method, not necessarily a physical path.

following the established path

Indicates adherence to a pre-existing or well-known route.

duplicating the journey

Focuses on replicating the entire journey or process.

FAQs

How can I use "by the same route" in a sentence?

You can use "by the same route" to describe returning along a path already traveled, or repeating a specific process. For example: "We returned "by the same route" after reaching the summit."

What can I say instead of "by the same route"?

You can use alternatives like "via the same path", "along the same way", or "following the identical course" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "by the same route" when describing a non-physical process?

While primarily used for physical routes, it can be metaphorically extended to processes. However, for clarity, consider using "by the identical method" or "using the same procedure" for non-physical contexts.

What's the difference between "by the same route" and "by the usual route"?

"By the same route" implies following a previously taken and specific path. "By the usual route" suggests following a commonly taken or standard path, not necessarily one you've taken before.