embarking on a quest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "embarking on a quest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the beginning of a journey or undertaking, often with a sense of adventure or purpose. Example: "After months of preparation, the team is finally embarking on a quest to discover the lost city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I'm the sort of guy who, when embarking on a quest, looks first to the Internet.

The New York Times - Tech

It added that it is "now embarking on a quest to eliminate all of the remaining additives".

The Guardian - Business

Thirty-two years on, Coyne, 49, is embarking on a quest to become the most powerful figure in the British trade union movement.

The Guardian

Thirteen celebrities you vaguely recognise from the cover of Take a Break magazine embarking on a quest to become Skating Superstars!" Passes out with excitement.

The Guardian

When you cross the rain-dappled river that leads into the wilderness, the sheer size of the bridge and the camp's log walls suggest that you are embarking on a quest that is larger than life.

The New York Times - Tech

Tonight, the Nets will raise the Eastern Conference championship banner, embarking on a quest to return to the N.B.A. finals with the season-opening game against the Atlanta Hawks at Continental Arena.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Mr. Solow also embarked on a quest to develop one of the last large parcels of undeveloped land in Manhattan.

The New York Times

He embarked on a quest to find the other end.

The New York Times

Naturally things go awry and visitors must embark on a quest to find Shrek.

Independent

Skeptical, I embarked on a quest for a great cup of tea.

The New York Times - Travel

Together, they embark on a quest to find his anonymous jailer and wreak appropriate vengeance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "embarking on a quest" when you want to emphasize the adventurous and challenging nature of starting something new. It's particularly effective when the goal is ambitious and the path uncertain.

Common error

Avoid using "embarking on a quest" in highly formal or business settings where a more direct and professional tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "initiating a project" or "beginning an initiative" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "embarking on a quest" functions as a verb phrase complemented by a prepositional phrase, describing the act of beginning a journey or undertaking with a specific goal in mind. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "embarking on a quest" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the beginning of an ambitious and often challenging endeavor. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to avoid overuse in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "beginning a journey" or "undertaking an adventure" for subtle variations in meaning. As Ludwig's analysis suggests, use "embarking on a quest" when you want to highlight the adventurous and goal-oriented nature of the undertaking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Embarking on an undertaking

Is a more generic substitute, as it does not imply the challenge, discovery, or adventure elements usually associated with "embarking on a quest".

Beginning a journey

Focuses on the commencement of travel, either literal or metaphorical, differing from "embarking on a quest" by lacking the implicit sense of a challenging pursuit.

Undertaking an adventure

Similar to embarking on a quest, but emphasizes the excitement and uncertainty inherent in the endeavor, contrasting with the potentially more structured nature of a quest.

Setting out on a mission

Highlights the purposefulness and defined objective of the undertaking, differentiating it from the more open-ended nature of a quest.

Launching an expedition

Conveys a sense of organized exploration, often involving a team or group, whereas a quest can be a more solitary pursuit.

Commencing an exploration

Emphasizes the act of discovering or investigating new territories or ideas, which may or may not share the specific goal-oriented structure of a quest.

Starting a campaign

Often used in a political or social context, implying a concerted effort to achieve a specific goal, differing from the more personal or exploratory nature of a quest.

Commencing a pilgrimage

Implies a journey with spiritual or religious significance, distinguishing it from the broader scope of a quest.

Initiating a pursuit

Focuses on the act of following or chasing after something, which may or may not involve the challenges and objectives associated with a quest.

Venturing forth

Emphasizes the act of taking a risk or facing the unknown, in contrast to the possibly predetermined path of a quest.

FAQs

How can I use "embarking on a quest" in a sentence?

You can use "embarking on a quest" to describe the beginning of an adventurous journey or a challenging undertaking. For example, "The team is "embarking on a quest" to find a new solution."

What are some alternatives to "embarking on a quest"?

Alternatives include phrases like "beginning a journey", "undertaking an adventure", or "setting out on a mission", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "embarking on a quest" and "starting a project"?

"Embarking on a quest" implies a more adventurous, challenging, and uncertain journey with a significant goal, while "starting a project" is a more straightforward and often less daunting undertaking with defined objectives and a structured approach.

Is "embarking on a quest" suitable for formal writing?

While "embarking on a quest" can be used in formal writing, it's often more appropriate for creative or descriptive contexts. In more formal business or academic settings, consider alternatives like "initiating a project" or "commencing an endeavor" for a more professional tone.