Well-trodden

Describing a path, route, or area that has been frequently used, often by foot traffic. It implies a sense of established familiarity, indicating that something is commonly traversed or explored. well-trodden places often show signs of wear and tear, such as worn surfaces, flattened vegetation, or distinct tracks. Figuratively, 'well-trodden' can refer to ideas, methods, or approaches that are widely known, commonly used, and perhaps even predictable or unoriginal. It conveys a sense of established practice or familiarity, sometimes carrying implications of conventionality or lack of innovation.

Well-trodden meaning with examples

• Hikers followed the well-trodden path up the mountain, its compacted earth a testament to years of use. The trail wound its way past familiar landmarks, providing a sense of comfort and direction. Even the dense forest felt less intimidating, with the well-worn route guaranteeing safe passage. Following this well-trodden path meant a steady climb, but an easy navigation to the summit of the mountain.
• The well-trodden tourist route led us through the city's most iconic landmarks, each stop teeming with visitors. While convenient, the sights felt somewhat impersonal, and the crowds dampened the experience. Despite the saturation, we were able to explore the best parts of the city with the well-trodden road showing the way. This 'well-trodden' path offered a standardized understanding.
• The professor warned against pursuing such a well-trodden line of research, encouraging students to explore more innovative areas. Many academics had already exhaustively covered the topic, the methods and analysis, leading to little original contribution. He wanted original, well-researched, yet novel works to add to the body of research, not just a well-trodden theory that many had exhausted.
• After years of experience, the detective knew every well-trodden loophole in the law, allowing criminals to slip through unnoticed. He had seen all the well-trodden methods of deception, and he quickly identified suspicious behavior. This well-trodden area of crime seemed never to surprise him, as he always was one step ahead of the perpetrators, due to his knowledge.
• The script followed a well-trodden plot of a hero's journey, its narrative familiar and easily understood. While the familiarity offered comfort to the audience, the critic argued it lacked originality. All elements of the script had the familiar trope of the hero, creating a sense of familiarity and a well-trodden plot that seemed to drag on.