At English Path, our objective is to help our students with every step of their English learning journey.
The word path has many uses in English. It can mean:
- a route or track between two places (often for walking on)
- the course or direction in which a person or thing is moving
- a course of actions that lead to a specified result.
We think our name English Path includes all of these different meanings!
The word ‘path’ is very useful in English. Here are some phrases that include this word:
to cross paths (with someone)
This expression means to meet someone, usually by chance.
Example: I hope I cross paths with you again one day.
to be on the war path
We use this expression to describe someone who is angry and ready for a fight or conflict.
Example: Watch out for Mary today. She’s on the warpath.
the path of least resistance
We use this phrase when we want to describe the easiest option that avoids any difficulty or confrontation. Often used with the verbs ‘take’, ‘choose’ or ‘follow’.
Example: I often disagree with my flatmate but usually choose the path of least resistance and I just do what she says.
to lead someone up/down the garden path
This expression means to deceive someone or to intentionally give someone false information.
The car salesperson led me down the garden path. He told me the car was in excellent condition, but I’ve had so many problems already!
To take the path less chosen
This phrase is used to describe a time when we choose the less popular or common option.
Example: All my friends went to university, but I took the path less chosen and started working straight after school.
Every path has its puddle (proverb)
A proverb is a short sentence that describes something that people commonly believe to be true or gives some advice. This proverb means that we can find obstacles and challenges in all aspects of our lives. We need to overcome these difficulties if we want to progress.
Example: I know you weren’t happy with your exam results, but every path has its puddle, and you shouldn’t give up now!
Can you come up with any other phrases that use the word "path"? Let us know in the comments!