paves the path

USAGE SUMMARY

'paves the path' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used when someone is taking a proactive approach to doing something, laying down the groundwork for something, or creating the foundations for something. For example: "By starting her own business, Lisa has paved the path to becoming financially independent."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

What are small moments of humiliation and discomfort if it ultimately paves the path to security?

The Guardian - Books

Virtualizing SDNs and providing suitable virtual network embedding (VNE) techniques, paves the path for designing highly configurable virtualized cloud data centers.

Computer Networks

The development of novel highly specific inhibitors targeting MMPs paves the path to study complex biological processes associated with ECM proteolysis in health and disease.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research

By this point, the makers of Skyfall have taken the bold decision to open Bond up – to probe at the character's back-story and raise a toast to his relationship with M. Yet this touchy-feely indulgence proves to be a mistake, in that it paves the path to soft-headedness, nostalgia and (worst of all) jokey banter with Bond's bearded old retainer.

The Guardian - Film

This work not only reports for the first time the rational design and fabrication of porous NCMO_rGO nanoflakes as high performance electrodes for energy storage but also paves the path towards facile synthesis of mixed metal oxide nanocomposites for other applications.

Electrochimica Acta

Through a literature review this paper paves the path for the possible development of a forecasting model for making short term predictions during chaotic events so as to assist business practitioners in navigating their way out of chaos, thereby facilitating organizational emergence.

Systems Engineering Procedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

That's paving the path to authoritarianism.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Books, not bullets, will pave the path toward peace and prosperity.

Independent

In fact, it is education and job skills that will pave the path to self-sufficiency.

The New York Times

"Books not bullets," says Malala, "will pave the path towards peace and prosperity".

The Guardian

He helped pave the path for state primaries -- not party bosses -- to dictate delegate support.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "paves the path" to describe actions or strategies that create a clear and direct route to achieving a specific goal or outcome. This phrase is especially effective when discussing long-term planning and strategic initiatives.

Common error

Avoid using "paves the path" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "opens the door" or "sets the stage" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paves the path" functions as a verb phrase. It is commonly used to describe an action that makes a future outcome more likely or easier to achieve. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

41%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "paves the path" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe actions that facilitate or enable a future outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It appears frequently in science, news, and academic contexts, with neutral register making it suitable for various communication styles. Alternative phrases like "opens the door" and "sets the stage" can be used for variety. A key writing tip is to avoid overuse to prevent redundancy. It's essential to use the right tense based on whether the path is currently being paved (paves) or has already been paved (paved).

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Opens the door

Implies creating an opportunity or making something possible.

Sets the stage

Highlights the preparation aspect, creating a favorable environment.

Lays the groundwork

Focuses on building a solid foundation for future development.

Creates an opportunity

Emphasizes the act of making a chance or possibility available.

Facilitates progress

Directly indicates the ease and advancement towards a goal.

Prepares the way

Similar to paving, but slightly more general in connotation.

Enables advancement

Stresses the empowerment and forward movement aspect.

Promotes development

Focuses on growth and expansion as a result of the action.

Fosters growth

Suggests nurturing and supporting the expansion of something.

Leads the way

Highlights guidance and direction towards a specific outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "paves the path" to describe how a particular action or decision facilitates future success. For example, "Investing in education now "paves the path" for a brighter future."

What are some alternatives to "paves the path"?

Some alternatives to "paves the path" include "opens the door", "sets the stage", and "lays the groundwork depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "paved the path" instead of "paves the path"?

Yes, "paved the path" is the past tense form of the phrase. "Paves the path" is present tense, while "paved the path" describes something that has already happened. For instance, "Her hard work "paved the path" for her success."

What is the difference between "paves the path" and "leads the way"?

"Paves the path" implies creating conditions for future success, while "leads the way" suggests guiding or directing others. "Paves the path" focuses on preparation; "leads the way" focuses on guidance.