set on a path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set on a path" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe someone or something beginning a course of action or journey, for example: The company's new CEO was determined to set the business on a path to success.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Only 34 came to the interview but failed to justify themselves; they were arrested, and set on a path towards deportation.The agency thought Vanguard a success.

The Economist

"He seems set on a path heading in the right direction, and we want to make sure he retains all that make him so effective," he said.

Independent

Meanwhile Spain's shakier savings banks have been set on a path to recapitalisation and, in some cases, nationalisation by September (see article).

The Economist

So BAE seems set on a path of small purchases in America, plus perhaps the return of some cash from the Airbus sale to its shareholders.

The Economist

The new international agreement we seek must be effective - so it must include all nations, and must ensure that the world is set on a path to avoiding dangerous climate change.

The Guardian - Opinion

In "harmonising" business regulation, the EU seems set on a path of imposing the most stringent rules on all countries, rather than seeking the minimum level of regulation acceptable to all, or even moving towards the average.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

This gave her the understanding that a momentary lapse in moral vigilance can set one on a path that one would have thought unimaginable.

The New Yorker

"Some who've tried to learn it have gone mad," Dwan went on, with the cheerful assurance of one who is set on a calmer path.

The New Yorker

His group, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, has set up schools where those children can be set on a different path.

The New Yorker

Once innovation is set on a fruitful path, it tends to accelerate on its own.

Huffington Post

While controlling your costs may still put you in a better financial position, you will already be set on a career path that may be difficult to redirect.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set on a path" to illustrate a clear and intentional beginning or direction, especially when there's an implication of progress or development. For example, instead of saying "The new policy started a change", say "The new policy set the organization on a path of change" to emphasize the ongoing nature of the transformation.

Common error

Avoid using "set on a path" when the direction or outcome is uncertain or unintended. The phrase implies a degree of intentionality and clarity. Don't use it to describe accidental or chaotic situations. Instead, use phrasing like "drifted towards" or "stumbled into" if the direction wasn't intentional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set on a path" primarily functions as a verb phrase within a sentence. It indicates the action of initiating a specific course or direction. As Ludwig AI confirms, this idiom conveys the idea of starting something with a defined purpose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set on a path" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that signifies the initiation of a journey or course of action. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides various examples illustrating its use across different contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase conveys direction and purpose, making it suitable for describing intentional beginnings. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards professional usage due to its clarity and directness. When writing, it's important to consider the implications of intentionality and direction when using this phrase, avoiding it in situations where the direction is uncertain or accidental.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set in motion

Focuses on initiating a series of events or a process.

start down a road

Similar to "set on a path" but suggests a more physical or linear progression.

embark on a journey

Implies a more literal or metaphorical journey, often with challenges or discoveries.

begin a course of action

A more formal and general way to describe starting something.

get something underway

Highlights the initiation and momentum of a project or process.

take the first step

Emphasizes the initial action in a process or undertaking.

initiate a process

A more technical and formal way of saying starting a process.

launch into

Suggests a more forceful or energetic start.

lay the foundation

Emphasizes building a base for future development or success.

pave the way for

Indicates preparing for something else to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "set on a path" in a sentence?

The phrase "set on a path" is used to describe the beginning of a journey or course of action. For example, "The new discovery "set him on a path" to medical school".

What are some alternatives to "set on a path"?

You can use alternatives such as "embark on a journey", "begin a course of action", or "start down a road" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "set onto a path" instead of "set on a path"?

No, the correct phrasing is "set on a path". Using "onto" is grammatically incorrect in this idiomatic expression.

What does it mean when something is described as being "set on a path"?

It means that it has been directed or started on a specific course or trajectory, implying a sense of purpose or direction.