take a different path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a different path" is correct and is commonly used in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a different approach, decision, or strategy should be taken. For example, "Rather than trying to force our idea through, let's take a different path and see if there are other ways we can make progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Or we can take a different path".

The New York Times

I think people here take a different path".

The New Yorker

But, he added, "We must take a different path.

The New York Times

But the attestation of controls could take a different path.

The New York Times

The bidding would take a different path today.

The New York Times

Nations like Chile can take a different path.

The Washington Post

"I wish I could go back and convince myself to take a different path".

The Guardian - Tech

Unrestrained government spending is a dangerous road to deficits, so we must take a different path.

The New York Times

"But the British people made a different decision to take a different path.

The Guardian

It is now the right time for me to take a different path".

The Guardian - Sport

But that organization has at least tried to take a different path.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take a different path" when you want to suggest exploring alternatives to a current plan or method. It's particularly effective when the existing approach isn't working or is leading to undesirable outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "take a different path" when a minor adjustment is sufficient. Overstating the need for a completely different approach can sound disproportionate if a simple tweak would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a different path" functions as an idiomatic expression used to suggest a change in strategy, approach, or course of action. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a different path" is a versatile and commonly used expression that suggests a change in strategy or approach. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage in diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Academia, and Science. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context's formality and consider exploring synonyms like "adopt an alternative approach" or "choose a different route" for variety. Avoid overuse in scenarios where only minor adjustments are necessary. The phrase serves as a prompt for exploring alternatives when the current course isn't yielding desired results, encouraging problem-solving through new perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go in a different direction

Simple and direct way to express changing plans or objectives.

adopt an alternative approach

Focuses on the method used, implying a deliberate shift in strategy.

alter one's strategy

Highlights a deliberate change in method to achieve a goal.

choose a different route

Emphasizes the change in the course of action, similar to changing a physical route.

pursue an alternative course

Highlights the continued effort, but in a new direction.

try a different tack

Suggests altering the method or strategy, often used in a problem-solving context.

chart a new course

Suggests planning or initiating a fresh strategy or direction.

deviate from the current course

Implies a more formal or structured plan that is being altered.

switch gears

Idiomatic expression suggesting a change in approach or focus.

reconsider the method

Focuses on thinking again about the approach, suggesting a thoughtful change.

FAQs

How can I use "take a different path" in a sentence?

You can use "take a different path" to suggest an alternative approach or strategy, like: "If our current marketing strategy isn't working, we need to "take a different path" to reach our target audience."

What are some alternatives to "take a different path"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "adopt an alternative approach", "choose a different route", or "go in a different direction" as alternatives to "take a different path".

Is there a difference between "take a different path" and "take a new path"?

"Take a different path" implies changing from an existing, perhaps unsuccessful, route. "Take a new path" suggests venturing into uncharted territory or starting something entirely fresh.

When is it most appropriate to use "take a different path"?

It's appropriate when the current course of action isn't yielding the desired results and a significant change in strategy or approach is needed. It suggests a deliberate decision to deviate from the norm or a previously set plan.