shepherd through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shepherd through" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of guiding or leading someone through a process or situation, often with care and support. Example: "The mentor's role is to shepherd through the new employees as they adapt to the company's culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

SO many Cinderella candidates to shepherd through the scrum of this City Council race.

The New York Times

If he helps shepherd through an immigration bill, he will have the major legislative achievement that eluded Mr. Obama.

The New York Times

But Ms. Kroes's predecessor, Ms. Reding, needed only seven months in 2006 and 2007 to shepherd through the first roaming price caps against fierce industry opposition.

The New York Times - Tech

Finally, they strapped their contraband to their backs and, led by a shepherd through back roads and dirt paths, hiked 65 miles to the city.

The New York Times

This amounted to another dig at Mr. Bush, who critics have said failed to shepherd through such a law in Texas.

The New York Times

Sebelius, health secretary since Obama came to office in 2009, helped shepherd through the Affordable Care Act in 2010 and directed its subsequent implementation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Under Mr. Bloomberg, New York has been shepherded through desperate budget straits without significant losses in service.

The New York Times

The legislation is being shepherded through the Senate by Christopher J. Dodd, Democrat of Connecticut.

The New York Times

I last saw the frail Wilson being shepherded through the Lords by Callaghan, older but tougher.

The Guardian

A source said: "This is a key role in a majority government, shepherding through crucial legislation".

The Guardian

He gave much of the credit to three tax cuts that he shepherded through Congress.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shepherd through", ensure that the context clearly indicates a process or system that requires careful guidance and management. It's particularly effective when the subject matter is complex or sensitive.

Common error

Avoid using "shepherd through" for situations that simply require instruction or information. This phrase implies a more involved and ongoing process of guidance, not just a one-time explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shepherd through" functions as a phrasal verb, where "shepherd" acts as the verb and "through" as a particle. It describes the action of guiding, leading, or managing someone or something through a process, often with care and support. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shepherd through" is a common and correct phrasal verb that signifies guiding someone or something through a process, particularly one that is complex or challenging. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, and less common in formal business or scientific settings. While alternatives such as "guide through" or "lead through" exist, "shepherd through" suggests a more active and caring approach to the guidance provided. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context to ensure it appropriately conveys the level of involvement and support being offered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guide through

Focuses on providing direction, less emphasis on active management.

lead through

Emphasizes taking charge and showing the way.

steer through

Suggests navigating a complex or challenging situation.

usher through

Implies formally escorting or guiding someone.

facilitate through

Highlights making a process easier or smoother.

manage through

Stresses control and oversight during a process.

navigate through

Focuses on overcoming obstacles and finding a path.

conduct through

Highlights a formal and organized guidance.

pilot through

Emphasizes skilled maneuvering, like a pilot.

supervise through

Suggests overseeing and directing progress.

FAQs

How do I use "shepherd through" in a sentence?

You can use "shepherd through" to describe guiding someone or something through a complex process. For example, "The project manager will "guide through" the team through the implementation phase".

What can I say instead of "shepherd through"?

Alternatives include "guide through", "lead through", or "facilitate through", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "shepherded through"?

Yes, "shepherded through" is the past tense form of the verb phrase and is grammatically correct. For instance, "The bill was "steered through" Congress by the senator".

What is the difference between "shepherd through" and "guide through"?

"Shepherd through" often implies a more active and protective role in guiding someone, while ""guide through"" can be more general. "Shepherd" suggests a nurturing approach.