chart our own path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chart our own path" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to convey the idea of taking initiative and making your own decisions, rather than pursuing the conventional path that everyone else is taking. For example: "Although it's difficult, we must chart our own path and not be swayed by what others believe or do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"To succeed in life, all we need are the tools, the trust and the chance to chart our own path.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As the mother of three strong daughters, my mother consistently broadcast the message that my sisters and I were the equals of any boys, could chart our own paths and could overcome all limitations.

Huffington Post

While most of us may not receive the level of attention that the First Lady did, we can still certainly use her advice while charting our own paths.

HuffPost

We will chart our own destiny".

The Guardian - Business

I've been brought up to believe that through your own force of will and intellect you can chart your own path through life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

From there, you can chart your own path towards professional growth with three additional management courses of your choice.

Johns Hopkins University

She shows us you can't undervalue the role of listening to chart your own path to leadership. 2. Stand Up for Policies That Move the World Forward.

Forbes

You have to chart your own path, taking into account such things as the likelihood you will hold on to the appreciated shares indefinitely and the possibility you will need the money yourself in retirement.

Forbes

2. "Don't be afraid to chart your own path.

Huffington Post

You "chart your own path to adventure" while you "set your own goals and choose your own destinations".

Vice

"You chart your own path, and do so with things like feminist politics or queer identities which are bound to produce diverse results".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chart our own path" to encourage initiative and independent thinking, especially in contexts where conventional approaches are insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "chart our own path" in situations where a straightforward or established approach is more appropriate. Overusing metaphors can make your writing sound cliché or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chart our own path" functions as a figurative expression. It is used to describe the act of creating a unique and independent course of action or strategy. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "chart our own path" is a widely used expression that signifies taking control and creating a unique course of action, according to Ludwig. It's grammatically sound and employed across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and business. Its neutral to professional tone and emphasis on self-determination make it a versatile choice for encouraging initiative. While overusing the metaphor is a common pitfall, strategic use can effectively inspire independent thinking. Alternatives like "forge our own destiny" or "determine our own course" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase empowers individuals and groups to embrace unique paths.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forge our own destiny

Emphasizes creating one's future rather than simply planning a path.

determine our own course

Focuses on deciding the direction or route that will be taken.

carve our own niche

Highlights creating a unique position or role, especially in a professional context.

make our own way

A more general phrase indicating independent progress and self-reliance.

blaze our own trail

Implies innovation and pioneering spirit in creating a new path.

set our own agenda

Emphasizes taking control of priorities and goals.

take the initiative

Focuses on being proactive and taking the first step in decision-making.

create our own opportunities

Highlights the active creation of chances for success and advancement.

shape our future

Focuses on influencing and directing what will happen in the time to come.

control our own fate

Suggests having power over the outcomes and events in one's life.

FAQs

How can I use "chart our own path" in a sentence?

You can use "chart our own path" to describe making independent decisions and creating a unique course of action. For example: "To succeed, we must be willing to "chart our own path", even if it means diverging from conventional wisdom."

What does it mean to "chart our own path"?

To "chart our own path" means to take control of your decisions and create your own unique course of action, rather than following what others expect or advise. It emphasizes independence and self-determination.

What are some alternatives to "chart our own path"?

Alternatives include "forge our own destiny", "determine our own course", or "make our own way". These phrases convey similar meanings of independence and self-direction.

When is it appropriate to use "chart our own path"?

It's appropriate to use "chart our own path" when you want to emphasize the importance of making independent decisions and creating a unique approach, especially in the face of challenges or when conventional methods are not sufficient.