define a path forward

USAGE SUMMARY

'define a path forward' is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in formal or business writing to describe the process of creating a plan or strategy for moving forward towards a goal. Example: The committee was tasked with defining a path forward for the company's expansion into international markets. After months of research and deliberation, they presented a comprehensive plan outlining the steps needed to achieve success in new territories.

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The final session focused on defining a path forward, including integration of the obesogen/metabolic disruptor hypothesis into mainstream science.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Fourth, we wanted to begin to define a "path to success" for bloggers.

TechCrunch

But Mr. Romney did not define a clear path forward.

The New York Times

Fortunately, we have a path forward.

The New York Times

There is a path forward.

The Guardian

For giving us a path forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

"All this was was a path forward.

The New Yorker

Mr. Arafat also appears to be groping for a path forward.

The New York Times

Wellesley professor and feminist Peggy McIntosh offers a path forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thankfully, a path forward is coming into view.

The New York Times

But every expensive financing situation should have a plan and a path forward.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "define a path forward", ensure the context clearly indicates the problem or situation requiring a plan. This adds weight and relevance to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "define a path forward" in contexts where the direction is already clear or the solution is obvious. Overuse can dilute the phrase's impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define a path forward" functions as a call to action, often used in formal or business contexts. It prompts the creation or clarification of a strategic plan for future progress. Ludwig's AI response confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "define a path forward" is a grammatically sound expression used to emphasize the need for strategic planning and problem-solving. Ludwig AI confirms that it is suitable for formal and business contexts. While there are no specific examples in the provided data to analyze the usage patterns, it's often used when facing challenges or when a plan is required. Related phrases include "establish a course of action" and "determine a strategy for advancement", which capture the sense of taking concrete steps and strategic planning respectively. When using "define a path forward", it is important to ensure that the context is appropriate and not in a situation when there is an obvious solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establish a course of action

Focuses on the concrete steps involved in moving towards a goal, while being almost identical in meaning.

Determine a strategy for advancement

Emphasizes the strategic aspect of planning, while being almost identical in meaning.

Identify a plan for the future

Highlights the process of discovery and planning, while being almost identical in meaning.

Chart a route ahead

Uses a navigational metaphor to suggest mapping out a direction.

Formulate a future plan

Focuses on the creation and articulation of a structured plan.

Develop a roadmap

Employs the common business term 'roadmap' for strategic planning.

Create a blueprint for progress

Highlights the creation of a detailed plan for achieving progress.

Design an action plan

Emphasizes the practical and actionable nature of the plan.

Lay out a strategy

Focuses on the strategic arrangement of elements in a plan.

Conceive a forward-thinking approach

Stresses the innovative and proactive aspects of the plan.

FAQs

How can I use "define a path forward" in a sentence?

You can use "define a path forward" to describe creating a strategy or plan to move towards a specific goal, especially when facing challenges or uncertainty. For example, "The company needs to define a path forward to address the declining sales."

What's a less formal way to say "define a path forward"?

Less formal alternatives include "figure out what to do next", "make a plan", or "decide on our next steps". These options are more suitable for casual conversations.

Which is the correct phrasing: "define a path forward" or "defining a path forward"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they function differently. "Define a path forward" is an imperative, suggesting an action to be taken. "Defining a path forward" is a gerund phrase, referring to the act of creating the plan itself, or the result of the action.

What does it mean to "establish a course of action" /s/establish+a+course+of+action?

To "establish a course of action" "establish a course of action" means to set up or create a specific plan or strategy to achieve a particular goal. It's very close to defining the path forward, but focuses on the actions more directly.