parallel paths

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "parallel paths" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more processes, ideas, or journeys that are occurring simultaneously but independently. Example: "The two projects are running on parallel paths, each with its own timeline and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But their parallel paths diverged early Thursday.

The New York Times

By then, their careers were evolving along parallel paths.

The New York Times

He writes on parallel paths that may seem mutually exclusive but regularly connect.

The New York Times - Sports

Whatever their technical differences, Akamai and Inktomi in some ways have followed remarkably parallel paths.

The New York Times

In the novel, Doctorow sets the Collyers off down two parallel paths.

The Guardian - Books

Ms. Fields said: "In the physician's office, patients and doctors talk almost on parallel paths.

The New York Times

To date, the recording career of Jay-Z has taken two parallel paths.

The New Yorker

Unwound, these ropes become parallel paths to tread around the stage.

The New York Times - Arts

Word spread quickly along two parallel paths: the truth and the heart attack story.

The New York Times

The Russert-Stephanopoulos duel presents an intriguing rivalry, with parallel paths to the top of Sunday television.

The New York Times

And because they worked simultaneously along multiple parallel paths, instead of in one orderly serial, they were much faster.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "parallel paths" to effectively illustrate situations where two or more distinct processes or developments occur simultaneously and independently, yet may share a common goal or origin. For example, describe different research efforts tackling the same problem as running on "parallel paths".

Common error

Avoid using "parallel paths" when the processes or developments are directly influencing each other. The phrase implies a degree of independence, so ensure the contexts you use it in accurately reflect separate, albeit related, progressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "parallel paths" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts. It describes multiple courses of action or development occurring simultaneously.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parallel paths" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes multiple independent but related courses of action or development. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that it's most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, making it suitable for neutral to formal communication. When using this phrase, ensure that the paths are genuinely independent and simultaneous to avoid misrepresenting the relationship between them. Consider "concurrent routes" or "simultaneous trajectories" as alternatives to enhance clarity and precision in your writing. Overall, it is a suitable and recommended expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concurrent routes

Emphasizes the simultaneous and independent nature of the paths, focusing on the idea of routes or courses.

simultaneous trajectories

Highlights the movement or progression along different paths at the same time.

convergent streams

Suggests separate paths moving towards a common point.

parallel lines of development

Focuses on the evolution or growth of something along similar lines.

separate but related tracks

Highlights both the distinction and connection between different courses of action.

alternative routes

Indicates that multiple routes are available.

diverging paths

Suggests routes that start together and then separate.

corresponding developments

Focuses on how different events or processes occur together and relate to each other.

twin tracks

Implies two simultaneous and similar courses of action.

multiple avenues

Refers to a variety of different ways of achieving something.

FAQs

How can I use "parallel paths" in a sentence?

You can use "parallel paths" to describe situations where two or more processes, ideas, or projects are developing independently but may be related or have a similar goal. For example, "The two companies are pursuing "parallel paths" in their research, but their ultimate aim is the same."

What are some alternatives to "parallel paths"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "concurrent routes", "simultaneous trajectories", or "separate but related tracks".

Is it correct to say "paths are parallel"?

Yes, the phrase "paths are parallel" is grammatically correct. However, using the noun phrase "parallel paths" is more common and often more concise in writing.

What's the difference between "parallel paths" and "diverging paths"?

"Parallel paths" suggests that two or more paths are running alongside each other without intersecting, while "diverging paths" implies that the paths were once together but are now moving in separate directions.