chart a new path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chart a new path" is correct and can be used in written English.
It implies finding a way forward that is different from the one taken before. For example, "The company decided to chart a new path and invest in emerging markets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

NBC Universal reached into its past to chart a new path forward on Friday, hiring Andrew Lack to lead its news division after a series of missteps that culminated with the suspension of Brian Williams last month.

The New York Times

The difference is that now there is very little time to chart a new path.

The New York Times

President Obama has offered Pakistan a broad relationship and its best chance to chart a new path.

The New York Times

It is difficult to chart a new path in playing that well-known work, but the sensitivity of Mr. Barnatan's soft playing was memorable.

The New York Times - Arts

Today the Republican Party is in dire straits again, but none of the candidates has even begun to chart a new path.

The Economist

Nokia is paying $8.1 billion for Navteq, wagering that satellite location services will chart a new path to sales and profit.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Now the faith has been broken, and the Democratic leader says he is charting a new path.

The Washington Post

Baker charted a new path that diverged from the one that O'Neil had established through his own storytelling and charm, upsetting many longtime supporters, several board members said.

The New York Times - Sports

Who is confident, indeed, of charting a new path to national prosperity that doesn't rely on a consumer boom sustained by property wealth?

The Guardian - Opinion

Without that secrecy, Mr. Bass is charting a new path: Will he be a hero to the gay community and to his former fans?

The New York Times

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1881-1955), a French Jesuit priest and scientist, charted a new path in reconciling Christian theology with evolutionary science.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chart a new path", ensure the context clearly indicates what the previous path was and why a change is necessary. This adds depth and justification to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "chart a new path" in overly general or clichéd situations where it adds little value. Instead, opt for more specific language that highlights the unique aspects of the new direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chart a new path" functions as a verbal phrase that signifies the act of creating or discovering a new strategy or course of action. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in diverse contexts, such as businesses changing direction or individuals seeking personal growth. This suggests that the phrase effectively communicates the initiation of a different approach.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "chart a new path" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that signifies initiating a different course of action, strategy, or approach. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts, demonstrating its versatility and broad applicability. The phrase often implies a sense of hope and determination in the face of challenges. While "chart a new path" is generally suitable for formal writing, it's important to avoid overuse in clichéd situations and ensure the context clearly justifies the need for change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forge a new direction

Replaces "chart" with "forge" emphasizing creation and effort; "path" becomes "direction" which implies general orientation.

establish a new course

Substitutes "chart" with "establish" and "path" with "course", indicating setting up a new plan or route.

pioneer a different route

Uses "pioneer" instead of "chart", highlighting innovation and exploration. "Route" is used instead of "path", suggesting a more defined journey.

initiate a novel approach

Replaces "chart a new path" with "initiate a novel approach", focusing on starting something innovative.

develop an alternative strategy

Emphasizes the creation of a new strategy, shifting focus from a physical path to a plan of action.

design a fresh plan

Focuses on the planning aspect, suggesting a newly created design for future actions.

embark on a new journey

Replaces "path" with "journey", highlighting the beginning of a new experience or endeavor.

create a unique avenue

Uses "create" to emphasize originality and "avenue" as a specific means to an end.

discover an innovative method

Highlights the act of finding a new and inventive way of doing things.

set a transformative precedent

Implies establishing a new standard or example that will cause significant change.

FAQs

How can I use "chart a new path" in a sentence?

You can use "chart a new path" to describe a shift in strategy, direction, or approach. For example, "After the company's losses, the CEO decided to "chart a new path" by focusing on sustainable practices".

What is a good alternative to "chart a new path"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "chart a new path" include "forge a new direction", "establish a new course", or "pioneer a different route".

Is it appropriate to use "chart a new path" in formal writing?

Yes, "chart a new path" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business, academic, and news contexts. It conveys a sense of strategic decision-making and forward movement.

What does it mean to "chart a new path"?

To "chart a new path" means to create or discover a new way of doing something, especially after a period of stagnation, failure, or significant change. It suggests a deliberate effort to find a more effective or innovative route forward.