scenic route

USAGE SUMMARY

'scenic route' can be used in written English.
It is a phrase that means to take a longer and more interesting route from one place to another. Example sentence: Since we had some extra time, we decided to take the scenic route to the beach.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

General conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Direct route or scenic route.

The New Yorker

Glad we took the scenic route.

The Guardian - Books

What is the most scenic route?

Harvard Business Review

One was the scenic route, favored by Elizabeth.

The New York Times - Travel

"He scoffs whenever I suggest a scenic route".

The New Yorker

He always has time for the scenic route.

The New York Times - Style

If you feel like taking the scenic route, take the Star Ferry across.

Independent

The lake is encircled by the magnificent Gardesana scenic route (89 miles), opened in 1931.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I understand that some of our visitors took the scenic route," he told the BBC.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, there is something nostalgic, something poetic, about the long road or the scenic route.

The New York Times - Sports

Highway 13 is the scenic route to Ashland, as it hugs stretches of wild lakeshore.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scenic route" in writing, consider the audience. If the context involves travel or leisure, it enhances the narrative by adding a touch of wanderlust.

Common error

Don't use "scenic route" simply to mean a long or inefficient path. The key element is the presence of appealing scenery or interesting views. If a route is just long and boring, it's not a "scenic route."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scenic route" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes a particular type of path or road known for its aesthetic qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a commonly used phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Travel

21%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

HuffPost

12%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scenic route" is a common and correct English expression used to describe a path or road that offers beautiful views and an enjoyable experience. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage. While primarily used literally in the context of travel and roads, it can also be used metaphorically to describe a less direct path to a goal. When writing, remember that the key element is the presence of appealing scenery, and consider alternatives like "picturesque way" or "winding road" to better fit your specific context. Overall, "scenic route" is a versatile and valuable phrase for adding color and depth to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

picturesque way

Focuses more on the visual beauty of the route.

winding road

Emphasizes the indirect and possibly longer nature of the path.

leisurely drive

Highlights the relaxed and unhurried pace.

meandering path

Emphasizes the winding and gentle nature of the route.

circuitous path

Stresses the roundabout nature of the route.

road less traveled

Implies a less common and possibly more adventurous route.

the long way round

Highlights the indirect nature of the route but can lack the appeal of "scenic"

tourist trail

Suggests a route specifically designed for sightseeing.

byway

A minor road, often more scenic.

back road

A secondary road, often used for its scenic qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "scenic route" in a sentence?

You can say, "We decided to take the "scenic route" through the mountains to enjoy the views" or "Highway 1 is a popular "scenic route" along the California coast".

What's a less common meaning of "scenic route"?

Beyond its literal use for roads, "scenic route" can also metaphorically mean a longer, less direct path to achieving a goal, implying unexpected experiences along the way. For example: "He took the "scenic route" to becoming a doctor, working as a paramedic first".

What can I say instead of "scenic route"?

Alternatives include "picturesque way", "winding road", or "leisurely drive", depending on which aspect you want to emphasize.

When is it appropriate to use "scenic route"?

It's appropriate when the path offers pleasant views and an enjoyable experience, whether literally on a road or metaphorically in a life journey. If there's nothing particularly special about the path, a simpler term like "longer route" might be more fitting.