a way or track laid down for walking or made by continual treading, a course of action or way of achieving a specified result

off the beaten path, cross someone's path, lead someone down the garden path

Formal and Informal Expressions of path

In different contexts, you can replace 'path' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'course, route' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'way, road' is a commonplace synonym.

path: Explore its Definition & Usage

path Definition

1a way or track laid down for walking or made by continual treading
2a course of action or way of achieving a specified result

Using path: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "path" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The path through the forest was narrow and winding.
Example
She decided to pursue a career path in medicine.
Example
The company is on a path to success.
Example
He followed the path of his father and became a lawyer.

path Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for path

Antonyms for path

Phrases with path

off the beaten path
away from the frequently traveled routes
Example
We took a hike off the beaten path and discovered a beautiful waterfall.
cross someone's path
to meet or encounter someone, often unexpectedly
Example
I never thought I'd cross paths with my high school sweetheart again, but we ran into each other at the grocery store.
lead someone down the garden path
to deceive or mislead someone
Example
Don't let him lead you down the garden path with false promises.

Origins of path

from Old English 'pæth'

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Summary: path in Brief

The term 'path' [pæθ] refers to a way or track for walking or a course of action. It can be a physical trail or a metaphorical route, as in 'She decided to pursue a career path in medicine.' Phrases like 'off the beaten path' denote an unusual or less-traveled route, while 'cross someone's path' means to meet or encounter someone. 'Lead someone down the garden path' is an idiom that means to deceive or mislead someone.