Definition

1. Noun:
   • A map showing roads: A physical or digital document that displays a network of roads, highways, and often other features to assist in automobile travel and navigation.
   • A detailed plan or explanation: A figurative term for a comprehensive, step-by-step strategy or outline designed to guide the process of setting standards, achieving goals, or determining a future course of action.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Literal - Map):

  • We checked the road map to find the best route to the coast.
  • Before GPS, drivers relied on paper road maps for long journeys.

• Noun (Figurative - Plan):

  • The document provides a road map for implementing the new safety regulations.
  • The president said he had a road map for normalizing relations with Vietnam.

Advanced Usage

• "to provide a road map for": To supply a detailed plan that outlines the steps necessary to achieve a specific objective.

  • The committee's report will provide a road map for educational reform.

• "to follow a road map": To adhere to a predetermined plan or strategy.

  • The team is following the project road map closely to meet the deadline.

Variants and Related Words

• Roadmap (noun): A common alternative spelling, especially in figurative/business contexts (e.g., ).
• Route map (noun): A map or plan showing a specific path or sequence, often for public transport or a process.

Synonyms

• Plan: A detailed proposal for doing or achieving something.
• Blueprint: A detailed plan or guide.
• Strategy: A plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.
• Guide: Something that provides a model or standard for making decisions.

Related Phrases

• Strategic road map: A long-term plan outlining the vision and direction for an organization.
  • The board approved a five-year strategic road map for the company.

Idioms

• A road map to success: A proven plan or set of steps for achieving a successful outcome.
  • Her biography is considered a road map to success in the industry.

Noun

1. a map showing roads (for automobile travel)
2. a detailed plan or explanation to guide you in setting standards or determining a course of action
   • the president said he had a road map for normalizing relations with Vietnam