Pathway: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a physical or metaphorical route that leads to a specific destination, often emphasizing a step-by-step process or a clear progression.

• The garden had a winding pathway that led to a small pond
• For a successful career, one might follow a certain educational and professional pathway

Typically used to describe a specific path or direction taken to reach a destination, commonly in logistics, travel, or navigation.

• The delivery truck follows a specific route every morning
• We took the scenic route through the mountains

Often used in educational or navigational contexts to indicate a series of lessons or the direction taken by a vessel or vehicle.

• She enrolled in a new course to learn French
• The ship's course was altered to avoid the storm

Refers to a systematic way of doing something, often highlighting an organized and repeatable process.

• They developed a new method for data analysis
• Her method of teaching is very effective and appreciated by the students

Use 'pathway' when referring to a physical or figurative path that leads somewhere.

• The garden pathway was covered with fallen leaves
• She found a new career pathway after returning to school

Use 'route' when talking about a specific, often physical, course taken to get from one place to another.

• They planned the best route to get to the party
• The bus follows the same route every day

Use 'course' when talking about directions or a series of lessons or studies that one follows.

• The ship changed its course to avoid the storm
• He is taking an online course in graphic design

Use 'process' to describe a series of steps taken to achieve a particular end.

• The hiring process can take several weeks
• Learning a new language is a gradual process

A general term for any route or course along which someone or something can move. It is often used in both urban and rural contexts.

• The pathway through the park is well-lit at night
• She's on the pathway to becoming a successful doctor

Generally used for paths in nature, such as forests or mountains, often associated with hiking or trekking. It can also suggest a route that is marked, mapped, or officially designated.

• The hiking trail was steep and challenging
• We decided to take the scenic trail along the river

A narrow path intended mainly for walking, commonly found in countryside settings or parks. It often implies a more rustic or natural route.

• We followed the footpath through the woods
• There's a footpath that leads to the village

A specially constructed path for walking, often found in urban areas or indoor settings like shopping malls and airports. It can be paved or made with other sturdy materials.

• The new walkway connects the two buildings
• They added a covered walkway to provide shelter from the rain