exactly the course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly the course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a precise path, direction, or plan of action that one intends to follow. Example: "We need to determine exactly the course we should take to achieve our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He recommended that writer stay in bed, exactly the course of treatment that a doctor of 1789 would have prescribed, minus the leeches.

The New Yorker

Exactly the course taken years ago by Wham-O, makers of the Hula Hoop.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It helps to have another racer be able to tell you exactly how the course feels".

The New York Times - Sports

Not every Battlefield company continued exactly on the course it pitched on stage.

TechCrunch

But focusing on it now is exactly the wrong course.

The New York Times

These steps appear calculated to keep American troops in Iraq indefinitely — exactly the wrong course for both countries.

The New York Times

The denialists view the uncertainty as strengthening their case for inaction, yet a careful weighing of the relevant costs and benefits supports taking exactly the opposite course.

The New York Times

This means that if I choose to become the first person in my family to apply for university, I will be subject to a maximum £9,000-a-year fee, whereas many of my friends that were born a year before me will pay a third of the price for exactly the same course.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the Cornell study, Ceci taught exactly the same course on developmental psychology to two very similar classes, totaling 472 students, in fall and spring semesters.

Science Magazine

"Looking at this nationally, where there have been similar problems, they seem to be following exactly the same course where you've got the local objections, obviously to pylons, and they seem to be disregarding this on the matter of cost," Mr Mummery said.

BBC

But, and it's a big "but," America: Putting a con man at the helm of a foundering ship is not exactly the wisest course of action.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exactly the course", ensure that the context clearly defines what "the course" refers to. This prevents ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the specific path or method being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "exactly the course" when a more general term like "the right approach" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly the course" functions as a modifier clarifying a noun. It specifies that a particular path, method, or plan is being followed with precision and accuracy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English, albeit with relatively low frequency.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exactly the course" is grammatically sound and serves to emphasize adherence to a specific plan or method. Though Ludwig AI confirms it's correct, its use is relatively uncommon, with occurrences primarily in news and scientific contexts. When writing, ensure that the context clearly defines the term's reference to avoid ambiguity. While "exactly the course" is acceptable, consider using synonyms like "precisely the path" or "specifically the direction" for variety and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely the path

Emphasizes the accuracy and directness of the route or method taken.

specifically the direction

Highlights the particular orientation or trajectory being followed.

the identical route

Focuses on the sameness of the path taken, emphasizing replication.

the very same trajectory

Highlights that the objects follow the same route or path.

the spitting image of the plan

Highlights that the actions follow the plan or course.

the carbon copy of the journey

This expression suggests an exact replication of a trip or process.

the mirror image of the strategy

Implies a close resemblance to the planned strategy.

the precise procedure

Emphasizes the accuracy of the procedure.

the accurate approach

This option suggests the accuracy in a way of dealing with something.

the flawless method

Highlights the perfection of the method to carry out a task.

FAQs

How can I use "exactly the course" in a sentence?

You can use "exactly the course" to indicate a specific path or method that is being followed. For example, "The treatment followed "exactly the course" prescribed by the doctor".

What are some alternatives to "exactly the course"?

Alternatives include "precisely the path", "specifically the direction", or "the identical route", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "exactly the course"?

While not inherently redundant, ensure the "exactly" adds meaningful emphasis. Otherwise, "the course" might be sufficient. For instance, compare "The pilot followed exactly the course plotted" versus "The pilot followed the plotted course".

What's the difference between "exactly the course" and "the right course"?

"Exactly the course" implies adherence to a pre-defined route or method, whereas "the right course" suggests choosing the most appropriate path. The former is about precision, the latter about judgment.