steer in the right direction

USAGE SUMMARY

"steer in the right direction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to guiding someone on the correct path or helping them to make the right decisions. For example: "I'm so grateful for all the guidance my parents gave me when I was growing up; they really helped me to steer in the right direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It was a "big steer" – in the right direction.

The Guardian

But we have to steer in the right direction and accelerate our pace because we still face challenges.

The Guardian

And let's not overlook the Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering, which "automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the right direction".

The Guardian - Tech

We can linger in resentment and disagreement, or we can turn this into a powerful opportunity that we can steer in the right direction.

Huffington Post

Ask your doctor or a therapist for a steer in the right direction.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

And we need pioneering leaders if the sustainability movement is to be steered in the right direction.

The Guardian

He's been a fantastic influence on my career, especially in situations where I need to be steered in the right direction.

The Guardian - Money

Duffy said most of those children have been steered in the right direction by the combined efforts of teachers, pastors and families.

Los Angeles Times

Just because a lot of kids don't have father figures doesn't mean they can't be steered in the right direction.

Huffington Post

Now, because I have sat down in front of a psychiatrist and showed her the strange lists I collect on my phone, and disclosed to her all of the nauseating ways in which I have grieved for people over the years, I can be steered in the right direction.

Vice

Steer her in the right direction.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "steer in the right direction" when you want to emphasize guidance with a specific, positive outcome in mind. For example, "Mentorship programs can help steer young people in the right direction."

Common error

While "steer in the right direction" is widely understood, it can sometimes sound informal in highly professional or academic settings. Consider alternatives like "guide towards a positive outcome" or "provide sound guidance" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steer in the right direction" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of guiding someone or something towards a more desirable course or outcome. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "steer in the right direction" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe guiding someone or something towards a positive outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides several real-world examples. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider context and choose more formal alternatives for professional or academic settings. Common usage includes offering guidance, providing mentorship, or correcting a course of action. Be mindful of overusing this phrase in formal contexts, and remember that it implies active course correction, distinguishing it from broader terms like "guide".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guide towards a positive outcome

Emphasizes the positive result of the guidance, shifting focus from direction to outcome.

set on a correct path

Focuses on establishing the initial direction, implying a longer-term influence.

point in a beneficial direction

Uses 'point' to suggest a less forceful guidance, highlighting the beneficial aspect of the direction.

provide sound guidance

Highlights the quality of the advice, suggesting well-reasoned and reliable counsel.

influence favorably

Highlights the act of influencing rather than directing, suggesting a more subtle approach.

lead toward a constructive solution

Emphasizes leading and finding a solution rather than just pointing in the right way.

help navigate successfully

Focuses on assisting someone to navigate, emphasizing the successful outcome of their journey.

correct course

Implies a deviation from the intended path and a return to it.

channel efforts effectively

Highlights efficient use of effort, which is a narrower concept than providing general direction.

offer helpful advice

Focuses on providing suggestions, and it is less directional.

FAQs

How can I use "steer in the right direction" in a sentence?

You can use "steer in the right direction" to describe the act of guiding someone or something towards a favorable outcome. For example, "A good teacher can "steer students in the right direction"."

What are some alternatives to "steer in the right direction"?

Alternatives include "guide towards a positive outcome", "influence favorably", or "set on a correct path", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "steering in the right direction" grammatically correct?

Yes, "steering in the right direction" is grammatically correct, although the base form "steer in the right direction" is more commonly used as a general statement or instruction. Steering is used as a gerund.

What's the difference between "guide" and "steer in the right direction"?

"Guide" is a broader term for showing the way, while "steer in the right direction" implies more active course correction to ensure someone is heading towards a positive outcome. The first can apply in different situations, while the second has a very specific purpose and is related to a complex situation already in place.