stray from the path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stray from the path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone deviating from a set course of action or moral guideline. Example: "In his quest for success, he must not stray from the path of integrity and honesty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 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

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

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And it's too easy to stray from the path of good sense.

The Washington Post

The woods leading to Nore Hill are actively managed, so don't stray from the path.

The Guardian - Travel

Keep on the path and you will not see the ruined people so do not stray from the path.

The New York Times

In 40 years, a people could traverse the desert and reach the promised land; but they could also forget old lessons and stray from the path.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The sisters stray from the paths of virtue through a brilliantly painted fairground arch spanning the stage.

The Guardian - Music

Around 300 others had turned up yesterday, believing that English Heritage was going to allow open access to the site – a chance to stray from the paths, spend time in the centre of the circle and actually touch the huge hunks of stone – on December 21.

The Guardian

I had strayed from the path.

The New York Times

He knows his customers inside and out, and has never strayed from the path.

Independent

They worry that he has strayed from the path of fiscal rectitude.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stray from the path" in your writing, ensure the context is clear by specifying what 'path' you are referring to, whether it's a moral principle, a career goal, or a physical route.

Common error

Avoid using "stray from the path" in contexts where a literal path is already the main subject. This may confuse readers, especially if the intended meaning is metaphorical. Instead, opt for phrasing that emphasizes the physical act of wandering or deviating from a trail, and only use "stray from the path" when you actually want to say it figuratively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stray from the path" functions as a phrasal verb indicating a deviation from a set course, principle, or standard. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is used to describe someone departing from a prescribed direction or moral guideline.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stray from the path" is a phrasal verb that signifies deviating from a set course, principle, or standard. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English, highlighting its ability to describe a departure from moral guidelines or planned actions. The frequency of its usage is classified as uncommon, with its presence primarily in News & Media sources. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, ensure clarity regarding the "path" being referenced and avoid its use in literal contexts to prevent confusion. Consider alternatives like "deviate from the course" or "go astray" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deviate from the course

Emphasizes a departure from a planned route or action.

veer off track

Suggests a more sudden or unintentional departure.

go astray

Implies a loss of direction, often with negative consequences.

wander off course

Similar to 'veer off track' but suggests a more gradual deviation.

depart from the norm

Focuses on deviating from typical behavior or standards.

digress from the topic

Specifically refers to deviating from the main subject in a conversation or writing.

lose one's way

Indicates a loss of direction, both literally and figuratively.

step off the path

A more literal interpretation, suggesting a physical deviation.

go off the rails

Implies a significant and often chaotic departure from expected behavior.

abandon the principles

Indicates a departure from ethical or moral guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "stray from the path" in a sentence?

You can use "stray from the path" to describe someone deviating from a moral code, a set plan, or a prescribed course of action. For example: "It is easy to stray from the path of righteousness when faced with temptation."

What does it mean to "stray from the path"?

To "stray from the path" means to deviate from what is considered correct, moral, or the intended course. It often implies a negative consequence or a loss of direction.

Are there synonyms for "stray from the path"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "deviate from the course", "veer off track", or "go astray" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "stray from the path" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "stray from the path" when you want to emphasize the idea of deviating from a set course, especially in a metaphorical or moral sense. Avoid using it when literally describing someone walking on a path; in such cases, use simpler alternatives.