paths cross again

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "paths cross again" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two people meeting or running into each other unexpectedly or in an unlikely place after a long period of time, or two things or events intersecting or coming together. For example: "It was a surprise to see my old high school classmate in the supermarket. It had been years since we last saw each other - our paths crossed again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Should the sisters' paths cross again on Saturday there is no knowing what may happen.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps the chief justice and the new president can wish each other good luck, until their paths cross again.

The New York Times

And then, 50 years later, their paths cross again, and she hasn't changed, in Berlioz's eyes, one bit.

The Guardian - Books

While the league remains a big ask, Liverpool will feed off this famous win should the sides' paths cross again in Europe.

The Guardian - Sport

This Chandleresque novel really starts when their paths cross again: Sean's a cop, Jimmy's daughter is dead, and Dave's a suspect.

The New Yorker

When their paths cross again 10 years later, they put that theory to the test as they bond over their mutual heartbreak from previous relationships in this romantic comedy written by Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Their paths crossed again the following year.

The New Yorker

Their paths crossed again in 2000 at Harvard Business School, but both were in relationships.

The New York Times

Their paths crossed again during Hillary Rodham Clinton's 2000 Senate campaign, which Mr. de Blasio managed.

The New York Times

When Drury came to the Rangers in 2007, our paths crossed again.

The New York Times

Their paths crossed again in 2003 when both moved to New York.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "paths cross again" to suggest a degree of chance or inevitability in a future meeting, often after a period of separation. It's more evocative than simply saying "we will meet again".

Common error

While "paths cross again" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more direct alternatives like "we will meet again" or "we anticipate future collaboration" in professional communications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paths cross again" functions as an idiomatic expression to denote a future meeting or re-encounter between individuals or entities. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various narrative and reflective contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "paths cross again" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig. It's primarily used in news and media contexts to express the hope or expectation of a future meeting, often implying chance or destiny. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more direct alternatives in formal settings. Remember to consider the context and audience when deciding if this phrase is appropriate. Its evocative nature makes it suitable for narratives and reflective pieces, while professional communication may benefit from more straightforward language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cross paths once more

Emphasizes the element of chance or fate in the re-encounter.

meet again

This is a more direct and simple way of saying that two people will encounter each other in the future.

reunite

Suggests a more formal or emotionally significant re-encounter, often after a long separation.

see each other again

A simple and common alternative focusing on the visual aspect of meeting.

encounter again

Similar to "meet again", but can also apply to events or situations, not just people.

our lives intersect again

More metaphorical, suggesting that lives or experiences will overlap or connect.

reconnect

Focuses on re-establishing a relationship or communication.

bump into each other again

Implies an unplanned or accidental meeting.

our fates align again

Suggests a more destined or significant reason for the re-encounter.

circumstances bring us together again

Highlights external factors leading to the re-encounter.

FAQs

How can I use "paths cross again" in a sentence?

You can use "paths cross again" to indicate a future meeting, often unexpected. For instance, "I don't know when our "paths will cross again", but I hope it's soon."

What's a more formal alternative to "paths cross again"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "we will meet again" or "we anticipate future collaboration" as more direct and professional alternatives to "paths cross again".

Is "paths cross again" suitable for professional communication?

While acceptable, "paths cross again" might sound too sentimental for some professional contexts. Opt for alternatives like "we will reconnect" or "we look forward to future opportunities to collaborate".

What does it mean when someone says "I hope our paths cross again"?

It typically means they enjoyed your interaction and wish to see you again in the future. It's a polite and somewhat hopeful way of saying goodbye.