devise a path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devise a path" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the creation of a plan or strategy to achieve a specific goal or outcome. Example: "In order to improve our project management, we need to devise a path that outlines our objectives and the steps necessary to reach them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Among his accomplishments, Ko Ni helped devise a path to power for Suu Kyi, whose party won the election in 2015 that ushered in Myanmar's quasi-civilian rule.

The New Yorker

The plans are a sharp break with former President Barack Obama's approach and what was once a bipartisan consensus to devise a path to citizenship for some of the nation's illegal immigrants.

The New York Times

"They got the tech right from the very start and developed an incredible product, but seem like they've been stumbling around for the past six years trying to devise a path to profitability".

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A trainer traditionally serves as both a strategist and motivator, devising a path to victory and then pushing the boxer, during training camp, to be strong and fit enough to follow through on fight night.

The New Yorker

The analytical side is necessary to devise a clear path to where they want to go.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Imagine if Mayors and city leaders across the country were able to routinely use data and evidence to identify a challenge and devise a clear, concrete path to address it -- to truly figure out "what works".

Huffington Post

If the threat appears grave, the problem goes immediately into the center's emergency operating room, where it is attended to by a team of Microsoft engineers, working nearly round-the-clock to analyze the flawed code, anticipate paths of attack, devise a software patch to fix the defect and alert millions of customers of the problem and the patch.

The New York Times

First, we devise a data structure to convert the original calling paths in the log file into a frequent calling path graph.

Information Systems

The two of you devise a plan.

The New Yorker

Let's devise a game plan.

The New York Times

Devise a simple budget.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "devise a path" when emphasizing the inventive or creative aspect of planning a route, whether physical or metaphorical.

Common error

While "devise a path" is acceptable, it can sometimes sound less formal than necessary in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for phrases like "formulate a strategy" or "establish a method" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise a path" functions as a verb phrase followed by an article and a noun, acting as a verbal construction expressing the action of creating or planning a course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devise a path" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that denotes the creation or planning of a route, strategy, or method. Ludwig AI confirms this and provides examples from reliable sources. While generally neutral in tone, it may be more appropriate to use more formal alternatives in specific professional or academic contexts. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Science, highlighting its applicability across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a strategy

This alternative focuses on the creation of a plan, omitting the directional aspect of a path.

develop a plan

This option emphasizes the development of a detailed scheme without specific reference to a route.

formulate a method

Focuses on creating a specific procedure or technique, removing the sense of direction.

establish a route

This phrase highlights setting up a course or way for movement, differing slightly from 'devise'.

design a course of action

This alternative refers to planning a sequence of steps, with 'design' replacing 'devise'.

construct a plan

Similar to developing a plan, but emphasizes the construction or building aspect.

chart a course

Emphasizes mapping or planning a route, often used metaphorically.

outline a process

This option is about creating a structured series of actions, which may or may not be a 'path'.

craft a solution

This phrase focuses on finding a resolution, which may not involve a structured route.

engineer a solution

Emphasizes a methodical, technical approach to finding a solution, altering the meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "devise a path" in a sentence?

You can use "devise a path" when you want to express the creation of a specific strategy, plan, or method to achieve a goal. For example: "The team needs to devise a path to increase sales next quarter."

What are some alternatives to "devise a path"?

Alternatives include "create a strategy", "develop a plan", or "formulate a method". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "devise a path" formal or informal?

"Devise a path" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very formal contexts, consider stronger alternatives such as "formulate a strategy".

What is the difference between "devise a path" and "identify a path"?

"Devise a path" means to create or invent a plan or method, while "identify a path" refers to recognizing or discovering an existing route or approach.