trailblazer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trailblazer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is a pioneer or innovator in a particular field or area. Example: "As a trailblazer in renewable energy, she has inspired many to pursue sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In this, as in so many other ways, it was a trailblazer.

The Guardian

Locals in well-worn bush hats and boots mingled with Trailblazer men dressed in crazily amateurish hammed-up drag and multicoloured wigs.

The Guardian

However, he is reluctant to be perceived as a trailblazer in his country.

The Guardian - Sport

In this it was a trailblazer The store's approach to retail can perhaps best be described as "confuse and disorientate".

The Guardian

In the world of interiors photography Todd Selby is something of a trailblazer.

The Guardian - Travel

Opened eight years ago in the dunes of the south, it was a trailblazer of the New Nordic style, sourcing and foraging its ingredients from the surrounding countryside and sea, with a heavy reliance on forest herbs and berries, pickling and smoking.

The Guardian - Travel

Here is another handbook (very much inspired by the Sloane Ranger trailblazer) and not just a neat riposte to the rise of loadsamoney flashdom, but an underlining that the nouveaux riches simply didn't have class, didn't have style, while the broke aristocrats effortlessly gloried in both, and made their straitened circumstances almost rather enviable.

The Guardian - Books

Although it can be updated to take in breaking news, it is primarily a daily, not an hourly.In one sense it is a trailblazer.

The Economist

The deal also increases pressure on banks to identify the ultimate owners of shell companies and trusts, behind which tax evaders often hide.In this section Battling the darkness Ghostbusters Neither borrowers nor lenders The data revolution One currency, divergent economies The great trailblazer ReprintsThe catalyst for the agreement was America's Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).

The Economist

But some of these will be existing employees, reclassified to get government bungs.In 2013 the government introduced a "trailblazer" system in which big employers get together to promote higher-quality schemes.

The Economist

Manchester, a trailblazer of city autonomy, has grown faster than any other northern city in the past decade.Still some cities are wary because the offer requires them to merge with neighbouring towns.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trailblazer" to highlight someone's innovative role in initiating change or setting new standards. It's particularly effective when emphasizing the impact of their actions on others.

Common error

Avoid using "trailblazer" as a generic term for anyone who is simply successful. Ensure the context clearly demonstrates their pioneering efforts and transformative impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "trailblazer" is as a noun, typically used to describe a person or entity that is the first to do something or that pioneers a new field or method. This aligns with Ludwig's examples, which showcase its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Academic

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "trailblazer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun to describe a pioneer or innovator. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. Analysis reveals that "trailblazer" commonly appears in news and media, encyclopedias, and business contexts. Alternatives such as "pioneer", "innovator", and "groundbreaker" offer similar meanings. When using "trailblazer", it is essential to showcase how the subject's efforts lead to significant changes rather than simply labeling any successful person as such.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pioneer

A more general term for someone who is among the first to do something.

innovator

Focuses on the act of introducing new methods or ideas.

groundbreaker

Emphasizes the act of breaking new ground or barriers.

forerunner

Implies someone or something that comes before and paves the way for others.

trendsetter

Specifically refers to someone who starts new trends, especially in fashion or culture.

pathfinder

Suggests someone who discovers new routes or ways of doing things.

avant-garde

Describes something that is experimental or innovative, often in the arts.

pacesetter

Highlights the act of setting a standard or pace for others to follow.

leading light

Figurative language that means an outstanding person in a field.

visionary

Emphasizes having a clear and original vision for the future.

FAQs

How to use "trailblazer" in a sentence?

You can use "trailblazer" to describe someone who is a pioneer or innovator in a particular field. For example, "She is considered a "trailblazer" in the field of renewable energy".

What can I say instead of "trailblazer"?

You can use alternatives like "pioneer", "innovator", or "groundbreaker" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "trailblazer" or "trendsetter"?

"Trailblazer" refers to someone who initiates significant changes, while "trendsetter" specifically refers to someone who starts new trends in fashion or culture. The choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "trailblazer" and "leader"?

While both terms imply influence, a "trailblazer" specifically emphasizes pioneering efforts and innovation. A "leader", on the other hand, may simply guide or direct others without necessarily introducing something new.