set the direction

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about guiding or leading something in a specific direction. For example, "The CEO set the direction for the company with his new plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There is a particular need to investigate students' attitudes about technology-enhanced science investigations in precollege settings, as this is a critical time when interest in science can set the direction of future career goals (Maltese & Tai, 2011).

F1000Research

It set the direction of his life.

The New York Times - Sports

Its recommendations set the direction of travel.

The Guardian

You set the tone, and you set the direction".

The New York Times - Sports

But it is vital to set the direction of travel.

The Economist

The deepest beliefs of our nations set the direction of our foreign policy.

The New York Times

The battle in Alameda could set the direction for other states and localities.

The New York Times

That the job of a strong leader - to set the direction and build a strong team.

Independent

This is a historic decision and also a historic contribution that has clearly set the direction for our advance.

The New York Times

He was also required to allow Corbyn to set the direction of foreign policy and agree all decisions.

The Guardian

The majority party in Parliament gets to build the next government and set the direction of national policy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set the direction" when you want to emphasize the act of establishing a clear course or strategy for future action.

Common error

Avoid using "set the direction" when describing something that is merely influenced, rather than actively guided. For instance, instead of saying "The weather set the direction of our plans", consider "The weather forced us to change our plans".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the direction" functions as a verb phrase typically used to describe the act of establishing or determining a course, path, or strategy for future action or development. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set the direction" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that signifies establishing a clear course or strategy. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It commonly appears in News & Media and Science contexts, denoting leadership and guidance. While versatile, it's essential to avoid misusing it in passive contexts. Consider alternatives like "chart the course" or "establish the path" for nuanced expressions. Remember to use it when active guidance is intended to create a clear path forward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chart the course

Focuses on planning and mapping out a route or strategy.

establish the path

Implies creating a new route or way forward.

determine the trajectory

Emphasizes the future course or development of something.

define the course of action

Highlights the act of deciding on a specific plan or strategy.

lay the groundwork

Stresses preparation and creating a foundation for future progress.

take the lead

Highlights assuming control and guiding others.

take command

Suggests assuming a leadership role and giving orders.

steer the ship

An idiomatic expression for guiding an organization or project.

take the reins

Implies assuming control and guiding a process or organization.

call the shots

Indicates having the authority to make important decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "set the direction" in a sentence?

You can use "set the direction" to indicate establishing a clear course or strategy, as in "The new CEO will set the direction for the company's future growth."

What are some alternatives to "set the direction"?

Alternatives include "chart the course", "establish the path", or "determine the trajectory", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "setting the direction"?

Yes, "setting the direction" is the gerund form and is grammatically correct. For example, "Setting the direction for the project is the manager's primary responsibility."

What's the difference between "set the direction" and "follow the direction"?

"Set the direction" means to establish or determine a course, while "follow the direction" means to adhere to a course that has already been established.