clear the path

USAGE SUMMARY

"clear the path" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the action of removing obstacles or barriers that are blocking a path. Example: "We need to clear the path ahead so that we can continue our journey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Increasing the bid could clear the path for Sprint and Softbank to get down to business.

The New York Times

"He's obviously trying to clear the path to his re-election".

The New York Times

Then he shortened one of the car's seats to clear the path for rotating legs.

The New York Times

A necessarily interdisciplinary effort, involving both modelers and experimentalists, is needed to clear the path forward.

Journal of Hydrology

That will clear the path for the home secretary to become prime minister.

The Guardian

But they gave up making direct donations to clear the path to transparent democratic political finances.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thousands of beech trees have been felled to clear the path for the link.

The Guardian

But wireless technology alone will not clear the path to widespread use.

Nature

Nolo founder Ralph "Jake" Warner '66 helped clear the path for four 2013 graduates who are rethinking legal services.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They'll clear the paths.

The New York Times

I also advise people to clear the paths to their homes.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear the path" when you want to emphasize the removal of obstacles to facilitate progress or achieve a goal.

Common error

Avoid using "clear the path" when the context requires creating something new, rather than removing existing impediments. In such cases, consider alternatives like "build a bridge" or "establish a foundation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear the path" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of removing obstacles or impediments, making it easier for someone or something to progress or succeed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear the path" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies the removal of obstacles to facilitate progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Forbes. It is deemed suitable for both formal and informal contexts, with a neutral register. Alternatives such as "pave the way" and "remove obstacles" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. The primary function is to enable easier advancement, and its frequent use underscores its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pave the way

This alternative suggests creating a favorable condition for something to happen.

clear the way forward

Emphasizes the forward direction and progress.

open the door

Implies creating an opportunity or making something possible.

remove obstacles

Focuses on the act of eliminating impediments.

eliminate barriers

Stresses removing obstructions.

facilitate progress

Highlights the act of making advancement easier.

enable progress

Highlights the act of enabling or allowing advancement.

smooth the progress

Implies making progress easier and more seamless.

make way

Similar to creating space or opportunity.

set the stage

Suggests preparing for an event or action.

FAQs

What does it mean to "clear the path" for someone?

To "clear the path" for someone means to remove obstacles or difficulties that may prevent them from achieving their goals or progressing in a particular situation.

How can I use "clear the path" in a sentence?

You can use "clear the path" in a sentence like this: "The new policy will "pave the way" for innovation by removing bureaucratic hurdles, effectively "clearing the path" for researchers."

What are some alternatives to "clear the path"?

Some alternatives to "clear the path" include "pave the way", "open the door", and "remove obstacles". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "clear the path" a formal or informal expression?

"Clear the path" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific audience and situation to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.