go down the wrong path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "go down the wrong path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe making a poor decision or taking an incorrect course of action in various contexts, such as personal choices or professional decisions. Example: "If you don't consider the consequences of your actions, you might go down the wrong path in your career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"I chose to go down the wrong path".

The New York Times

One could take a wrong turn, go down the wrong path.

The New York Times - Books

"Some people have embellished it a little bit," he says now. "Like anybody there was the opportunity to go down the wrong path, hanging with the wrong people.

The Guardian - Sport

Burnham told the Guardian after his speech that Prevent, which was introduced under the last Labour government, had been allowed to go down the wrong path.

The Guardian

Most companies won't take you on because of your prison record, it's almost inevitable that you're going to go down the wrong path".

The Guardian

"You don't want to go down the wrong path for too long," he says.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

But through education you can prevent these kids from going down the wrong path.

The Guardian - Music

A majority of Egyptians have — three times now since 2011 — called a halt to their government's going down the wrong path.

The New York Times

It's been six years and you can make the arguement the national team is going down the wrong path and getting worse.

The Guardian - Sport

"The government is going down the wrong path in proposing that we should have more nuclear power stations," said Charles Barnett, chairman of the Shutdown Sizewell Campaign in Suffolk.

The Guardian

Her impression was that Martin's prior use of marijuana and an image of a gun found on his cell phone were indications that "he was going down the wrong path".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing personal choices, using "go down the wrong path" can be a nuanced way to express regret or concern without sounding overly judgmental. Example: "I worried he might go down the wrong path if he associated with those friends."

Common error

While "go down the wrong path" is acceptable in many situations, it can sound informal or clichéd in academic or professional writing. Consider using more precise language like "make a misguided decision" or "pursue an ineffective strategy" depending on the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go down the wrong path" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of making poor choices or taking a course of action that leads to negative outcomes. Ludwig shows its usage in various contexts, highlighting its descriptive role.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "go down the wrong path" is a common idiom used to describe making poor choices that lead to negative consequences. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in news media and informal contexts. While the phrase is generally understood, it may be too informal for certain academic or professional settings, where more precise language is preferred. Alternatives such as "make a misguided choice" or "take a wrong turn" can provide more formal options. Ultimately, the suitability of "go down the wrong path" depends on the context and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a wrong turn

Emphasizes the idea of deviating from a planned or correct route, either literally or figuratively.

make a misguided choice

Focuses on the decision-making aspect, highlighting that the choice was based on poor judgment.

begin to go astray

Highlights the initial point of deviation, suggesting a gradual departure from what is right.

stray from the righteous path

Adds a moral dimension, suggesting a deviation from ethical or virtuous behavior.

fall into bad ways

Suggests a gradual adoption of negative habits or behaviors.

get off on the wrong foot

Focuses on starting something badly, which can lead to further problems.

head down a slippery slope

Emphasizes the difficulty of stopping once a wrong course has been taken.

embark on a downward spiral

Emphasizes the progressively worsening nature of the situation.

choose the primrose path

Implies selecting an easy and attractive option that ultimately leads to destruction.

make a fatal mistake

Highlights the severe and irreversible consequences of the error.

FAQs

What does it mean to "go down the wrong path"?

To "go down the wrong path" means to make choices or take actions that lead to negative or undesirable outcomes. It implies a deviation from a correct or beneficial course.

How can I avoid "going down the wrong path"?

Careful consideration of your choices, seeking advice from trusted sources, and understanding the potential consequences of your actions can help you avoid "going down the wrong path".

What are some alternatives to saying "go down the wrong path"?

You can use alternatives like "make a misguided choice", "take a wrong turn", or "begin to go astray", depending on the context.

Is "go down the wrong path" appropriate for formal writing?

While understandable, "go down the wrong path" may be too informal for academic or professional writing. Consider using more precise and formal alternatives such as "make a misguided decision" or "pursue an ineffective strategy".