laying the path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "laying the path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of creating or establishing a direction or course for something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The team is laying the path for future innovations in technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Anne, meanwhile, is laying the path for her own downfall.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Destiny, perhaps, is once again laying the path of Bazdarevic's fulfilment.

Independent

Her first film, "Creative Nonfiction," made its debut in Austin in 2009, laying the path for "Tiny Furniture" the next year there and eventually "Girls".

The New York Times

All put their own stamp on traditional Christmas songs, with new material written especially for the season – raising the typical quality of creative output for the season, and laying the path for others to release credible Christmas albums.

Independent

In 1675 Tegh Bahadur was captured and executed upon his refusal to accept Islam, thus laying the path for the increased militancy under the last of the Gurus, Gobind Singh (1675 1708).

Encyclopedia Britannica

We'll be digging the tunnels and laying the path for a better and ultra-civil society where there won't be a deserving or undeserving divide … just people, a planet and the mutual care of both.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Her husband laid the path beneath, a mosaic of colorful stone and pebbles collected from the Pembrokeshire beaches.

The New York Times

All these actions by powerful unions, whether justified or not, affected ordinary people's lives, and laid the path for Thatcher in 1979.

The Guardian

In a sense, Fendi's success with the Baguette laid the path to the company's decline, by inciting one of the fashion industry's most vicious and, ultimately, unusual bidding wars.

The New York Times

He was one of the architects of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Accord that ended two decades of civil war in Sudan and laid the path to independence for South Sudan.

The Economist

No one quite remembers exactly why Renbourn and Jansch fell out for 35 years, but a new folk revival – especially among US players as disparate as Joanna Newsom and Fleet Foxes – throughout the past decade laid the path nicely for Pentangle's return.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "laying the path", ensure it's followed by a clear indication of what the path leads to. For example, "laying the path for future success" provides more context than simply "laying the path".

Common error

Avoid using "laying the path" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and cliché. Consider using synonyms like "paving the way" or "setting the stage" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "laying the path" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, indicating it's a standard and acceptable expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "laying the path" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe creating initial conditions for a future outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is often used metaphorically. While not extremely frequent, its consistent usage across reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian lends it authority. When using "laying the path", ensure it's followed by a clear indication of what that path leads to and avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "paving the way" or "setting the stage" to provide variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preparing the way

A more direct synonym, simply replacing 'laying' with 'preparing'.

paving the way

This alternative emphasizes the act of making something easier or more accessible for others.

setting the stage

This alternative focuses on preparing the environment for an event or situation to unfold.

clearing the way

This alternative highlights the removal of obstacles or impediments.

preparing the ground

This alternative suggests making preparations for future developments or actions.

establishing the foundation

This alternative emphasizes the creation of a solid base for something to be built upon.

charting the course

This alternative implies defining a specific route or direction to follow.

setting the course

Similar to charting the course, but with a slightly less formal tone.

forging a path

This alternative suggests creating a new route or approach, often in challenging circumstances.

opening the door

This alternative highlights creating an opportunity or possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "laying the path" in a sentence?

You can use "laying the path" to describe creating conditions for a future outcome. For example, "The new policy is laying the path for sustainable development."

What can I say instead of "laying the path"?

You can use alternatives like "paving the way", "setting the stage", or "preparing the ground" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "laying the path for" or should I use another preposition?

"Laying the path for" is the correct and idiomatic prepositional phrase. Using other prepositions would alter the meaning or sound unnatural.

What's the difference between "laying the path" and "building the path"?

"Laying the path" often implies creating the initial conditions or direction, while "building the path" suggests a more involved and concrete construction process. Think of "laying the path" as setting the vision and "building the path" as implementing it.