crossing paths

USAGE SUMMARY

"crossing paths" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It typically refers to two or more people unexpectedly encountering each other. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a moment when two different paths or lives intersect. Example: "We were both so surprised when we ended up crossing paths at the grocery store after years of not seeing each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When their crossing paths merged in glowing concords, the effect was magical.

The New York Times - Arts

Over the next few days they kept crossing paths, "sometimes intentionally," Ms. Hagler said.

The New York Times

As they do, they are crossing paths with professionals going in the opposite direction.

The New York Times

Make no mistake: you won't be crossing paths with Kate Moss or Beyonce here.

The Guardian - Travel

"People are transitioning, at intersections in their own lives, and crossing paths with others".

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Romney posted a congratulatory message on Twitter, saying "look forward to crossing paths on the campaign trail".

The New York Times

It is tempting to imagine them crossing paths there, though it is doubtful that they ever did.

The New Yorker

During my week in Prestonsburg, I kept crossing paths with an older man who worked in the plaza.

The Guardian

In "Ed" a New York lawyer returns home to the Midwest, almost crossing paths with Jim in midair.

The New York Times - Arts

So how does a person increase the odds of crossing paths with someone who matches his or her preferences?

The New York Times - Health

YOU can make a career as an exchange-rate economist without ever crossing paths with a currency trader.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "crossing paths" to subtly suggest an unexpected or meaningful encounter, especially when hinting at potential future interactions or influence. For instance, "Our careers were always separate, but we kept crossing paths at industry events."

Common error

Avoid using "crossing paths" without a clear subject. It needs context, such as people, ideas, or events. Saying simply, "There was crossing paths" lacks clarity. Be precise about who or what is "crossing paths".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crossing paths" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun within a sentence. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it describes the action of meeting or intersecting, whether literally or metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a commonly used and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "crossing paths" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase that signifies encountering or intersecting with someone or something. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase is generally accepted in various contexts, including News & Media and Scientific writings. While its usage is broad, it's essential to provide a clear subject to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "meeting unexpectedly" or "encountering one another" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey. Overall, it is a versatile expression found in numerous sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meeting unexpectedly

Focuses on the unplanned nature of the encounter.

encountering one another

Emphasizes a direct meeting between two parties.

intersecting lives

Highlights the convergence of life journeys or experiences.

bumping into each other

Suggests a casual and often unplanned meeting.

running into someone

Similar to bumping into, but slightly more intentional.

coming across

Implies a chance discovery or encounter.

coinciding

Focuses on events or paths happening at the same time or place.

having a rendezvous

Implies meeting at a designed place and time.

converging

Describes two or more things coming together from different directions.

intertwining destinies

Suggests a deeper, more significant connection between individuals.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "crossing paths" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "encountering one another", "intersecting", or "having a rendezvous", depending on the context.

Is "crossing paths" only used for people?

No, "crossing paths" can also be used metaphorically for ideas, projects, or even abstract concepts that intersect or influence each other. For example, "The fields of art and technology are increasingly crossing paths".

What's the difference between "crossing paths" and "bumping into"?

"Bumping into" usually suggests a casual, unplanned encounter, while "crossing paths" can imply a more significant or fated intersection, even if it's also unexpected.

How to use "crossing paths" in a sentence?

You can use "crossing paths" in a sentence like, "After many years, we ended up crossing paths at a conference", or "Their professional interests began crossing paths as the project evolved".