By way of context

USAGE SUMMARY

"By way of context" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used when you want to provide further information to help the reader better understand the context or content of a particular sentence or idea. For example: "The government recently passed a law that cast a wide net on foreign investments. By way of context, this law is intended to prevent money laundering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

By way of context, that's around seven times the size of the entire global economy.

MIT Technology Review

By way of context, the UK and Japan that year contributed 0.9 percentage points, France 0.7 and Germany 0.8.

The Guardian - Business

By way of context, political parties in Norway, Denmark and Sweden, not countries strongly associated with discrimination, have previously reserved places for women.

The Guardian - Opinion

By way of context, Dr. Wintemute said that in 2009 only about 150,000 people were prevented from buying a gun because they failed background checks, out of about 10.8 million who applied.

The New York Times

By way of context, the U.S. consumes about 6.7 billion bbl. of oil a year.

Forbes

By way of context, Twitter's weekly cohort numbers were notably lower at a similar point in their history.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Some of the strippers that come onto the Duke campus are men, Bob Steel told me, by way of offering context.

The New Yorker

The film is indeed pretty bad — there's nothing by way of character, context, or emotional insight, no wider development of the movie's silly yet intriguing connection of the medical to the metaphysical — yet it's bad in a strangely old-fashioned way.

The New Yorker

A few highlights from that analysis are worth repeating here by way of providing context for this report.

Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy

By way of theoretical context, Rothstein et al. (2006) describe an 'early stage' societal risk governance environment with few pressures from internal and external scrutiny.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

By way of cultural context, this was also the year Bret Ellis published American Psycho and Silence of The Lambs won Oscars for best picture, actor, actress, director and adaptation.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "By way of context" to smoothly introduce background details that help your audience understand complex situations or data. It ensures the main point is received with the necessary understanding.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "By way of context". Vary your introductory phrases to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "By way of context" functions as an introductory prepositional phrase. It signals the upcoming provision of background information or supplementary details intended to enhance the reader's understanding of the subsequent statement. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase helps better understand the context or content of a particular sentence or idea.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "By way of context" is a valuable tool for writers seeking to provide clarity and ensure audience understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English, offering numerous examples from diverse sources. It functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the provision of supplementary details or background information. While common across various contexts like news, science, and academia, it is essential to avoid overuse and maintain variety in writing. Consider alternatives like "for background information" to keep your writing engaging. By using this phrase judiciously, writers can effectively set the stage for their message and ensure a more informed reception.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

By way of explanation

Offers an explanation of something.

For background information

This phrase directly indicates the provision of background details.

As a point of reference

Offers a reference point to better understand the subject.

To provide some perspective

Aims to give a broader view of the situation.

To give you an idea

Introduces information to give a general understanding.

For clarification

Intended to make something clearer or easier to understand.

As supplementary information

Presents additional details to support the main point.

In simpler terms

Restates information in a more accessible manner.

To elaborate further

Expands on a previous statement with more detail.

Just so you know

Provides information casually, often as a reminder.

FAQs

How can I use "By way of context" in a sentence?

Use "By way of context" to introduce background information that clarifies the main point. For instance, "The company's profits have declined this quarter. By way of context, the entire industry is facing similar challenges."

What are some alternatives to "By way of context"?

You can use phrases like "for background information", "by way of explanation", or "to provide some perspective" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to provide context in writing?

While not always necessary, providing context enhances understanding and prevents misinterpretations, especially when discussing complex or unfamiliar topics. Use "By way of context" or similar phrases to signal when you're adding this clarifying information.

What distinguishes "By way of context" from "In conclusion"?

"By way of context" introduces background information, while "In conclusion" summarizes previous points. They serve opposite purposes: one sets the stage, the other wraps up the discussion.