take different paths

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take different paths" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups choosing various directions or approaches in a situation or journey. Example: "As we discussed our future plans, it became clear that we would take different paths in our careers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"We all take different paths," Bennett said.

The New York Times - Sports

"So we decided to take different paths".

The Guardian

In the 1960s, however, Mr. Wexler and Mr. Ertegun began to take different paths.

The New York Times - Arts

As many bar owners have realized, period accuracy and enjoyment sometimes take different paths.

The New York Times

In the first of its three scenes, "Rubric," innumerable pedestrians take different paths across the stage.

The New York Times - Arts

Why did evolution take different paths to get to similar places (parental care, for example)?

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Here, they have taken different paths.

The New York Times - Arts

The methods are taking different paths.

The New York Times - Tech

The cheap-sugar revolution took different paths in different places.

The New Yorker

Eniola and Sone's football soon took different paths.

The Guardian - Sport

These two countries took different paths in exploiting missile technology.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take different paths" to describe choices that lead to distinct outcomes or experiences, rather than simply indicating disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "take different paths" when simply expressing differing opinions; reserve it for situations where actions lead to divergent outcomes or lifestyles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take different paths" functions as a verb phrase that typically serves as the predicate of a clause. It indicates that subjects are choosing or embarking on divergent courses of action or directions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatical and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take different paths" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the divergence of entities in their directions or approaches. According to Ludwig, its register is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's most frequently found in News & Media. The phrase signifies that subjects are choosing or embarking on divergent courses of action. To enhance clarity, consider alternatives such as "follow different routes" or "go separate ways" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow different routes

Emphasizes the physical or metaphorical journey aspect of pursuing separate courses.

go separate ways

Highlights the act of parting and pursuing individual lives or objectives.

diverge in approach

Focuses on the methodologies used and how they become distinct.

choose alternative directions

Stresses the element of choice in selecting different routes or goals.

split up and head off in different directions

Focuses on the idea of a group disbanding and each member pursuing separate journeys.

embark on individual odysseys

Emphasizes the journey of individuals and how they have completely different experiences.

pursue disparate goals

Stresses the objectives and how they are completely different and not comparable.

adopt varying strategies

Highlights how there are different methodologies in solving a problem.

chart independent courses

Underscores the active planning and navigation of distinct and separate journeys.

veer off on tangents

Suggests a more sudden and less planned divergence from a main route.

FAQs

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

You can use "take different paths" to describe situations where individuals or entities diverge in their approaches or directions. For example, "After graduation, the classmates began to take different paths in their careers".

What is a synonym for "take different paths"?

Alternatives to "take different paths" include "go separate ways", "follow different routes", or "diverge in approach".

When is it appropriate to use "take different paths"?

Use "take different paths" when describing significant divergences in life, career, or strategy that lead to distinct and separate outcomes. It's less suitable for minor disagreements or temporary deviations.

Is "take different paths" formal or informal?

"Take different paths" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall tone and content of the writing than on its inherent formality.