"in the path of" vs "on the path of"

Question

"in the path of" vs "on the path of"

Both "in the path of" and "on the path of" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "In the path of" is used when something is physically obstructing the path, while "on the path of" is used when something is figuratively following the same course or direction.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used when something is physically obstructing the path of something else.

Examples:

The fallen tree was in the path of the hikers.
The car was parked in the path of the delivery truck.

Alternatives:

blocking the path of
obstructing the path of
impeding the path of
hindering the path of
standing in the path of

This phrase is used when something is figuratively following the same course or direction as something else.

Examples:

The detective was on the path of the criminal.
The scientist was on the path of a major discovery.

Alternatives:

following the path of
tracking the path of
pursuing the path of
tracing the path of
chasing the path of

Answer 1

in the path of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

on the path of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"in the path of" vs "on the path of"

in the path of

on the path of

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