go on a path

USAGE SUMMARY

"go on a path" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you're referring to going on a journey or route, either metaphorically or literally. For example, "He chose to go on a different path than his parents had taken."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Jeff wanted to go on a path back to Judaism," Mr. Sperling said.

The New York Times

We need to go on a path where, over the next several years, we bring our deficit under control," Mr. Lew said on the NBC program "Meet the Press".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

After Sarah's death, Rampling says, "I went on a path that was quite different: having had lots of fun, having loved being part of the 60s, suddenly I wasn't allowed to have fun any more".

The Guardian - Film

"He then goes on a path, which is quite an unhealthy path, to try and change who he is.

BBC

My recent conversations with Apple (including the ones cited in this piece, but not those alone) lead me to believe that they know they kept going on a path with pro customers that they felt was working long after it had, in fact, begun to erode.

TechCrunch

"During that relationship, and just going through the whole thing with my son, I kind of went on a path of self-destruction.

Vice

It was a very old traditional formula in an elevated style and used between two people (or two companies of many people) each going on a path that crosses that of the other: "A star shines upon the hour of the meeting of our ways".

Wikipedia

They … will sometimes go on a mistaken path" (57).

SEP

I could have done what everyone else does and go on a stable path of 9-to-5, weekends and holidays off, paid vacation.

Huffington Post

Go on along a path signed to Hardy's Cottage, turning left to continue downhill on a permitted path back into the car park and the start point of walk.

The Guardian - Travel

Or if I allowed myself to be angry, I would go on a raging war path.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "go on a path" when you want to convey the idea of starting a journey, either literally or metaphorically. It's particularly effective when describing a life choice or a course of action with long-term implications.

Common error

Avoid using "go on a path" too frequently in your writing, especially if it's a metaphorical path. Overuse can make your writing sound cliché and less impactful. Consider using synonyms like "embark on a journey" or "take a course of action" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go on a path" primarily functions as a verb phrase followed by a prepositional phrase. It describes the act of commencing a journey or course of action, as supported by Ludwig's examples showcasing various contexts where individuals "go on a path" towards a specific goal or experience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "go on a path" is a grammatically sound phrase used to signify the commencement of a journey, whether literal or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears across diverse contexts like news, wikis, and science, with a generally neutral to slightly formal tone. To enhance writing, remember to use the phrase thoughtfully and avoid overuse, potentially opting for alternatives like ""embark on a journey"" to vary your language. By doing so, you can ensure that you're going on the right path to clear and compelling communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start down a road

Uses "road" as a synonym for "path", maintaining the metaphor of a journey but potentially implying a more established or conventional route.

embark on a journey

Replaces "path" with the more general term "journey", suggesting a broader, less defined course.

head down a trail

Similar to "start down a road", but often suggests a more natural, less structured route.

take a course of action

Emphasizes the deliberate and planned nature of the undertaking, shifting from a physical route to a strategic plan.

begin a quest

Implies a long and challenging pursuit, often with a specific goal in mind, adding a sense of purpose and adventure.

set out on an adventure

Highlights the excitement and uncertainty of the undertaking, suggesting a willingness to explore the unknown.

follow a trajectory

Implies a predetermined course with a specific destination, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

pursue a line of inquiry

Specifies that the path involves investigation or research, narrowing the scope to intellectual exploration.

adopt a strategy

Focuses on the method or plan used to achieve a goal, highlighting the intentional and calculated nature of the approach.

undertake a mission

Indicates a specific task or assignment with a clear objective, emphasizing the importance and purpose of the undertaking.

FAQs

How can I use "go on a path" in a sentence?

You can use "go on a path" to describe starting a literal journey, or metaphorically to describe making a life decision. For example, "He decided to "go on a path" of self-discovery".

What are some alternatives to "go on a path"?

Alternatives include "embark on a journey", "take a course of action", or "start down a road", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "go on a path" or "embark on a path"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "embark on a path" might sound slightly more formal. The best choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

What's the difference between "go on a path" and "follow a path"?

"Go on a path" implies starting a journey or course of action, while "follow a path" suggests adhering to an existing route or plan. The former is about initiation, the latter about continuation.