neural pathways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "neural pathways" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts related to neuroscience, psychology, or discussions about learning and memory. For example: "Regular practice can strengthen neural pathways associated with skill development." Alternative expressions include "neural connections" and "brain pathways."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strands of lights also represent neural pathways.

The New York Times - Arts

"In terms of neural pathways, country roads become superhighways".

The New Yorker

"Literally: neural pathways get more established.

The Guardian

The human brain, too, is threaded with tracks, neural pathways.

The Guardian

Neural pathways go through a reordering in adolescence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Morrison, S. F. & Nakamura, K. Central neural pathways for thermoregulation.

Nature

Reading a book leaves us with new neural pathways.

The Guardian - Opinion

Figure 7: Neural pathways to the LES and crural diaphragm.

Nature

"Talking therapies really can influence the robustness of the particular neural pathways that counteract anxiety.

The Guardian

It is amazing to enter his neural pathways, if you let yourself.

The New York Times - Arts

They translate the impulses into electrical signals, which then travel along neural pathways to the brain.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing learning or habit formation, use "neural pathways" to emphasize the physical changes occurring in the brain. For example, "Repetition strengthens neural pathways associated with a new skill."

Common error

Don't use "neural pathways" as a vague metaphor for any kind of connection or relationship. Ensure the context relates to the actual biological structure and function of the brain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "neural pathways" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to the routes of communication within the nervous system. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in describing the physical connections and signal transmission in the brain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "neural pathways" is a commonly used noun phrase referring to the communication routes within the nervous system. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and prevalent in both scientific and general contexts. Its usage spans from explaining brain function to describing habit formation and learning processes. While it is frequently used in science and news media, it's important not to oversimplify its meaning and use it appropriately in contexts related to brain structure and function.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brain circuits

Focuses on the electrical activity and interconnectedness within the brain.

neuronal connections

Highlights the links between individual neurons, emphasizing the cellular aspect.

nerve fiber tracts

Emphasizes the physical bundles of nerve fibers that transmit signals.

brain networks

Refers to the broader, interconnected systems within the brain.

synaptic connections

Focuses on the specific points of communication between neurons.

cortical circuits

Specifies neural circuits within the cerebral cortex.

neurotransmission routes

Highlights the pathways through which neurotransmitters travel to transmit signals

sensory pathways

Focuses on the routes that transmit sensory information.

motor pathways

Highlights the routes that control movement.

cognitive networks

Emphasizes the interconnected systems involved in cognitive processes.

FAQs

How are "neural pathways" formed?

Neural pathways are formed through repeated activation of specific neural connections. Each time a pathway is used, the connections become stronger, a process known as synaptic strengthening.

What factors affect the development of "neural pathways"?

Factors include genetics, experiences, learning, and environmental influences. Stimulation and practice promote the formation and strengthening of neural pathways, while lack of use can weaken them.

Can "neural pathways" be repaired after damage?

Yes, to some extent. The brain exhibits neuroplasticity, which allows it to reorganize and form new "neuronal connections" after injury or disease. Therapies like physical and occupational therapy can aid in this process.

How do habits relate to "neural pathways"?

Habits are formed when certain "brain circuits" become strengthened through repetition. The more a behavior is repeated, the stronger the corresponding neural pathway becomes, making the habit more automatic.