on the right paths

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the right paths" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the correct or appropriate directions or choices in a metaphorical sense, often related to decision-making or moral choices. Example: "After much consideration, I believe we are finally on the right paths towards achieving our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But if we are to dramatically improve the participation chances of our poorer students, do we need to first hold to account the schools that fail to put them on the right paths?

The Guardian

Parents can only give good advice or put them [children] on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands.

Forbes

"Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"The team is on the right path".

The New York Times

"He's definitely on the right path.

The New York Times - Sports

"But it's on the right path".

The New York Times

Will Allen is on the right path, too.

The New York Times - Sports

We're on the right path.

The Guardian - Sport

"You are not on the right path.

The New York Times

He's on the right path.

The Guardian

But it put him on the right path.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the right paths", ensure the context clearly indicates metaphorical paths, such as strategies, decisions, or moral choices, to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "on the right paths" when referring to physical paths or directions; instead, opt for more literal language such as "on the correct road" or "following the marked trail".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the right paths" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. It indicates a state of being aligned with correct or beneficial courses of action. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the expression is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the right paths" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase primarily used to indicate that someone or something is following correct or beneficial courses of action. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it appears less frequently than its singular counterpart, "on the right path". Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to assure, encourage, or assess progress. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure the context is metaphorical to avoid misinterpretation. Related phrases like "on the correct track" or "heading in the right direction" can offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the correct track

Replaces "paths" with "track", emphasizing a course or direction, typically implying progress towards a goal.

on the right track

Similar to "on the correct track", but slightly more informal.

heading in the right direction

Uses "heading" to suggest movement and "direction" to indicate a general course.

on the road to success

Focuses on the ultimate goal of "success", suggesting progress along a route.

moving forward positively

Emphasizes forward movement and a positive outcome.

on a promising trajectory

Uses "trajectory" to imply a projected course or path, emphasizing potential.

following the right course

Emphasizes adherence to a prescribed or correct course of action.

pursuing the right course of action

Focuses on the correctness of actions taken, rather than a literal path.

advancing in the right manner

Highlights the advancement and the proper way of doing things.

making good progress

Highlights the progress and the quality of the progress made.

FAQs

How can I use "on the right paths" in a sentence?

You can use "on the right paths" to describe making correct or appropriate decisions, or following beneficial strategies. For example: "After much consideration, I believe we are finally "on the right paths" towards achieving our goals."

What's a similar phrase to "on the right paths"?

Alternatives to "on the right paths" include "on the correct track", "heading in the right direction", or "on the road to success", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "on the right path" or "on the right paths" more common?

"On the right path" is more common when referring to a singular course of action or direction, while "on the right paths" implies multiple simultaneous or alternative routes to success. Choosing between them depends on the specific context.

Can "on the right paths" be used in a literal sense?

While "on the right paths" is typically used metaphorically to describe strategies or decisions, it's generally better to use more direct language when referring to physical paths or directions. For example, prefer saying "on the correct road" instead.