is paved with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is paved with' is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a surface or path that has been covered with a hard material, such as concrete or stone. Example: The street is paved with smooth asphalt, making it perfect for bike riding.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My career path is paved with AstroTurf.

The New York Times

The paper trail to prosperity is paved with pitfalls.

The Economist

The road to success is paved with obstacles.

The New Yorker

The road to Washington is paved with broken campaign promises.

The New York Times

The road to hell is paved with good intentions.

The Guardian - Opinion

For Gail Monaghan, memory lane is paved with dessert.

The New York Times - Magazine

The road to rugby league is paved with good intentions.

The Times

The driveway is paved with flagstones inscribed with sea creatures.

The New York Times

Apparently the road to self-discovery is paved with merchandise.

The New York Times - Style

The road to carbon neutrality is paved with imperfect solutions.

The New York Times

The road to self-management is paved with information.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is paved with" figuratively, ensure the image you're creating is clear and relatable. For instance, "the road to success is paved with hard work" is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "is paved with" with abstract concepts that don't logically connect to the idea of a road or surface. For example, saying "the idea is paved with hope" is less effective than "the idea is filled with hope".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is paved with" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the composition of a surface or, more commonly, to metaphorically depict the elements that constitute a path or process. Ludwig confirms the phrase's common usage in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

10%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is paved with" is a versatile expression used both literally and figuratively. Grammatically correct and very common, it describes surfaces or paths covered with something and, metaphorically, the elements that make up a process or journey. As Ludwig AI confirms, its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to academic writing. When using it, ensure the image created aligns with the context and that metaphorical applications are logical and clear. Common errors include mixing metaphors or using the phrase in contexts where a more direct description would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is covered in

Focuses on a surface being physically covered.

is lined with

Suggests an arrangement along a border or edge.

is filled with

Emphasizes the presence of something abundant within a space.

is characterized by

Highlights the defining traits or features.

is abundant in

Indicates a plentiful supply or presence.

is marked by

Focuses on distinctive signs or features.

is strewn with

Suggests a scattering or spreading of something.

is beset by

Implies being troubled or harassed by something.

is riddled with

Highlights the presence of something undesirable throughout.

is imbued with

Suggests being permeated or saturated with a quality or feeling.

FAQs

How can I use "is paved with" in a sentence?

The phrase "is paved with" can be used both literally to describe a surface, such as "The driveway "is paved with" bricks", or figuratively to describe a path or process, such as "The road to success "is paved with" hard work".

What's a good alternative to "is paved with"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "is covered in", "is lined with", or "is filled with". Each of these alternatives subtly changes the image being conveyed.

Is it always appropriate to use "is paved with" metaphorically?

While generally acceptable, consider the specific context and whether the metaphor of a path or surface makes sense. In some cases, a more direct phrase might be clearer.

What is the origin of the expression "The road to hell is paved with good intentions"?

The expression "The road to hell "is paved with" good intentions" is a proverb that suggests good intentions alone are not enough to guarantee a positive outcome. It highlights the importance of actions and consequences, rather than just intentions.