stray from the

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stray from the" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing deviation from a path, idea, or set of guidelines. Example: "It's important not to stray from the main topic during the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

CHECK OUT: Threads STRAY FROM THE PATH If you miss Rage Against The Machine in both their funk-laden bouncing riffing or their biting, unrestrained lyrical pipebombs, Stray From The Path will turn your world upside down.

Independent

After all, sometimes it pays to stray from the original.

The New York Times - Food

In my kitchen, I stray from the authentic recipes.

The New York Times - Food

"I don't stray from the center of town.

The New York Times

Raylan Givens doesn't stray from the path of righteousness.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Sampras will probably not stray from the familiar, though.

The New York Times - Sports

"Yet even if girls stray from the prescribed script, doesn't it exert its influence?

The New York Times - Books

Of more immediate concern however was his proneness to stray from the marital bed.

Independent

The further you stray from the waterside in Miami, the more the heat and humidity intensify.

Independent

But where to stray from the beaten track for such delights?

Independent

As a politician he refuses to stray from the image of a unifier.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stray from the" when you want to emphasize a deviation from a prescribed or expected course of action. It's particularly effective in cautionary contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "stray from the" when a simple "change" or "alter" is more appropriate. "Stray" often implies a negative consequence or a loss of focus, so ensure that connotation aligns with your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stray from the" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often followed by a noun. It signifies a departure or deviation from a specific course, plan, or standard, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stray from the" is a commonly used and grammatically correct verb phrase that indicates a deviation from a prescribed course, plan, or standard. Ludwig's analysis confirms its prevalence in news, media, and scientific contexts, and the connotations often imply a sense of caution or unintended departure. While versatile, it's important to consider the subtle differences between "stray from the" and its alternatives, ensuring the chosen phrase aligns with the intended meaning and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deviate from

Implies a departure from an established course or standard.

depart from

Suggests a more formal or significant divergence.

veer away from

Indicates a change in direction, often subtly.

wander from

Implies a more aimless or unintentional deviation.

diverge from

Suggests branching off in a different direction.

digress from

Signifies a temporary departure from the main subject.

break away from

Implies a deliberate separation or rebellion.

drift from

Suggests a gradual and subtle shift away.

turn aside from

Indicates a conscious choice to avoid something.

differ from

Highlights a point of dissimilarity or contrast.

FAQs

How to use "stray from the" in a sentence?

You can use "stray from the" to indicate a deviation from a plan, path, or set of rules. For example, "It's easy to "stray from the" original recipe when improvising in the kitchen."

What can I say instead of "stray from the"?

You can use alternatives like "deviate from", "depart from", or "wander from" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "stray from the" or "stray away from the"?

"Stray from the" is more concise and commonly used. While "stray away from the" isn't incorrect, it can sound redundant as "stray" already implies moving away.

What's the difference between "stray from the path" and "wander from the path"?

"Stray from the path" often suggests a more significant or consequential deviation, while "wander from the path" implies a more casual or unintentional movement off course.