following a path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "following a path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a physical journey, a metaphorical journey in life, or a process of decision-making. Example: "She found herself following a path that led her to unexpected opportunities and personal growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When Elizabeth Gilbert was a young woman, she was following a path that she had watched her own mother and grandmother follow before her.

Huffington Post

He was following a path that many talented still photographers take these days as they follow the DSLR technological breakthrough into the world of film-making.

Huffington Post

Others believe he was following a path trodden numerous times by jihadi wannabes.

The Guardian

I.B.M. is following a path taken by some European companies recently.

The New York Times

Secretary Norton was simply following a path charted by her predecessor Bruce Babbitt.

The New York Times

We are following a path that will ultimately take us to a 4C-warmer world.

The Guardian

He is following a path of his own, and so far, it's still breaking new ground.

The New York Times - Arts

The current chancellor is following a path well trodden by predecessors.

The Guardian

Why would I? I thought I was following a path to a monastery.

The New York Times

In going public, Trulia is following a path set by its bigger competitor, Zillow.

The New York Times

For Burnett, following a path similar to Teixeira's is unlikely, though he is certainly capable.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "following a path" to describe both literal journeys and metaphorical pursuits in life, career, or personal development. Ensure the context makes it clear whether you're referring to a physical route or a course of action.

Common error

Avoid using "following a path" when the subject has no agency or choice in their direction. This phrase implies a conscious decision to pursue a certain course, so ensure it aligns with the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "following a path" functions as a verb phrase, often acting as part of the predicate in a sentence. As Ludwig confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase. It signifies the act of pursuing a direction or course of action, whether literal or figurative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

18%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "following a path" is a versatile expression used to describe adherence to a chosen course, direction, or method. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Ludwig examples show that it can refer to literal routes, career trajectories, or adherence to moral principles. Its frequency is very common, particularly in news and media sources. When writing, consider whether you intend to imply a physical route or a more abstract course of action, and ensure that the context aligns with the implication of conscious choice. Alternatives like "pursuing a course" or "embarking on a journey" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursuing a course

This alternative focuses on the act of actively pursuing a particular route or direction.

taking a route

This phrase emphasizes the act of choosing and embarking on a specific route.

progressing along a route

This option indicates consistent movement forward on a defined course.

going down a road

A more colloquial way to describe choosing and proceeding on a life path.

walking a line

Implies adherence to a set of guidelines or boundaries.

embarking on a journey

This alternative is more dramatic, highlighting the beginning of a significant undertaking.

maintaining a trajectory

Indicates the effort to continue a pre-set course despite challenges.

advancing along a trajectory

This phrase uses more formal language to describe forward progress on a planned route.

sticking to a plan

Highlights the dedication to a specific predetermined sequence of actions.

adopting an approach

This phrase is more suited to describe method and tactics.

FAQs

How can "following a path" be used in a sentence?

You can use "following a path" to describe a physical journey, like "We were "following a path" through the woods", or a metaphorical one, like "She's "following a path" toward her dream career".

What is an alternative to "following a path"?

Alternatives include "pursuing a course", "taking a route", or "embarking on a journey", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "following the path" instead of "following a path"?

Both are correct, but "following the path" usually implies a specific, pre-defined route, while ""following a path"" can refer to a more general direction or approach.

How does "following a path" differ from "blazing a trail"?

"Following a path" suggests adhering to an established course, whereas "blazing a trail" implies creating a new one, often involving innovation and risk.