a convenient means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a convenient means" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method or way of doing something that is easy and practical. Example: "Using public transportation is a convenient means of getting around the city without the hassle of parking."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nonpublication must not be a convenient means to prevent review.

Cornell University

— flash drives are a convenient means of transporting large quantities of information off the grid.

The New Yorker

They may have done this as a convenient means of paying their mercenary soldiers.

The New York Times - Science

Accusing American Special Forces of obstructionism would afford the general a convenient means of doing both.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The shark is only a convenient means of exposing that vulnerability".

The Economist

Antisemitism is too serious to become a convenient means to undermine political opponents.

The Guardian - Opinion

But money meant nothing to the Babe, except as a convenient means for lavish entertainment.

The New York Times

Ultrasonic degradation provides a convenient means of studying the degradation of macromolecules in transient elongational flows.

Polymer Degradation and Stability

Email is a convenient means of communication throughout the entire world today.

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

It also provides a convenient means of interfacing to data-acquisition and/or control systems.

PC Interfacing and Data Acquisition Techniques for Measurement, Instrumentation and Control

This method can provides a convenient means for dealing with the toxic hydrazoic acid.

Journal of Hazardous Materials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing solutions, emphasize both the ease of use and the effectiveness of the "convenient means".

Common error

Avoid using "a convenient means" when the method is only marginally easier or more practical. Ensure the convenience is significant and demonstrable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a convenient means" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a method or tool that makes something easier or more practical. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

34%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a convenient means" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe something that provides an easy and practical method for achieving a particular purpose. As Ludwig AI points out, it is suitable for various contexts, with the highest usage in scientific and news-related writing. While slightly formal, it remains versatile and understandable. To maintain writing clarity, use it only when convenience is a significant aspect of the described method, and consider more casual alternatives like "an easy way" in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a practical method

Emphasizes the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach.

an easy way

Focuses on simplicity rather than utility.

an efficient mechanism

Stresses the productivity and resourcefulness of the process.

a straightforward approach

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the way of doing something.

a simple solution

Highlights the uncomplicated nature of the resolution.

a useful strategy

Suggests a carefully designed plan for achieving a specific goal.

a ready solution

Indicates that the solution is readily available and easily implemented.

a helpful tool

Emphasizes that is a valuable aid for achieving a particular task or goal.

a hassle-free option

Highlights absence of difficulty or trouble.

an accessible alternative

Focuses on the ease with which the alternative can be obtained or used.

FAQs

How can I use "a convenient means" in a sentence?

Use "a convenient means" to describe a method or approach that is both easy and effective for achieving a particular purpose. For example, "Email is a convenient means of communication".

What can I say instead of "a convenient means"?

You can use alternatives like "an easy way", "a practical method", or "a simple solution" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a convenient means"?

While grammatically correct, "a convenient means" may sound slightly formal. Consider your audience and choose a more casual alternative like "an easy way" for informal settings.

What's the difference between "a convenient means" and "an effective means"?

"A convenient means" emphasizes ease and practicality, while "an effective means" focuses on achieving the desired result, regardless of the effort involved. The two phrases are not always interchangeable.