in their path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in their path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is located or occurring along the route or direction that someone or something is taking. Example: "The fallen tree was blocking in their path, making it difficult for the hikers to continue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Americans in their path were helplessly outnumbered.

The Economist

Protests have followed dependably, and often literally, in their path.

The New York Times - Magazine

They sweep away and incinerate nearly everything in their path.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But a farmer and his oxen stand in their path.

The New York Times

As Slovakia lay in their path, they overran it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They quite simply lay waste to everything in their path.

The Guardian - Opinion

The winds again swept up everything in their path.

The New York Times

Rocks and insults are hurled in their path.

The New York Times

His Yankees are once again trampling everything in their path.

The New York Times

Mr. Levine's up-tempos prodded everything in their path.

The New York Times - Arts

They intimidate and alienate everyone in their path.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in their path" to vividly describe obstacles or consequences encountered during a journey or endeavor, whether literal or figurative. For example, "The hurricane destroyed everything "in their path"."

Common error

Avoid using "in their path" solely for physical obstructions when a more nuanced term would better capture the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "Misinformation was "in their path" to understanding", consider "Misinformation hindered their understanding."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in their path" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate location or direction. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "in their path" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe obstacles or elements encountered during a journey or course of action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across varied contexts. While often found in news and encyclopedic sources, it also features in less formal registers. To use the phrase effectively, remember to consider whether it provides the most precise description of the situation or if a more nuanced term would be more appropriate. Alternatives such as "in their way" or "before them" may sometimes provide a better fit. Mastering "in their path" and its alternatives will enhance your writing by adding vividness and detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in their way

Indicates a direct obstruction or hindrance to movement or progress.

in their route

Refers specifically to an established or planned course of travel.

in their trajectory

Focuses on the direction or course of movement, emphasizing the line of travel.

in their course

Suggests a sequence of events or actions, emphasizing the progression along a defined path.

before them

A simple, direct way of indicating something is ahead or in front.

lying ahead of them

Emphasizes the future and the position of something that will be encountered.

on their line of march

A more formal and military-oriented way of saying something is directly ahead on their route.

confronting them

Highlights a direct encounter or challenge that needs to be addressed.

along their line of sight

Specifically refers to something visible and directly ahead.

in their sights

Implies something is targeted or being aimed at, adding a layer of intention.

FAQs

How can I use "in their path" in a sentence?

Use "in their path" to describe something located or occurring along the route or direction someone or something is taking. For example, "The protesters stood "in their path", blocking the road."

What's a good alternative to "in their path"?

Alternatives include "in their way", "along their route", or "before them", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "in their path" when describing obstacles?

While "in their path" is generally correct, consider whether a more specific term like "hindering", "obstructing", or "impeding" might be more precise in certain contexts.

What is the difference between "in their path" and "in their way"?

"In their path" often implies a more expansive or consequential obstruction, while "in their way" typically suggests a more direct and immediate hindrance. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.