a medium by which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a medium by which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method or means through which something is achieved or communicated. Example: "Art serves as a medium by which emotions can be expressed and shared with others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It is about conflict, and computers are merely a medium by which conflict can be expressed.

The New York Times - Science

If the social web is what made Internet phenoms like Ms. Kardashian and Justin Bieber famous in the first place, it's also giving Ms. Raphael and others who have veered into the Hollywood hinterlands a much-welcomed second wind — or, at the very least, a medium by which to rebrand and reintroduce themselves.

The New York Times

The principal role of cementum is to serve as a medium by which the periodontal ligaments can attach to the tooth for stability.

Wikipedia

Justine grows up in a strict vegetarian household, but after her first introduction to meat, through hazing at her veterinary school, it quickly evolves from something she eats into a medium by which to explore who she is.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Because it requires that one express and support a clear, consistent opinion on a debatable issue, persuasive writing is an excellent medium by which to gauge a student's ability to use language proficiently, apply logical thinking and demonstrate organizational ability.

The New York Times

Trade shows are a common medium by which manufacturers and engineering companies present their capabilities to prospective clients.

Technical Career Survival Handbook 100 Things You Need to Know

The GSAS metric provided a useful medium by which we systematically investigated how gene sets from MSigDB relate to breast cancer patient survival.

BMC Medical Genomics

This metric is a useful medium by which we can stratify patients for survival analysis, which allows us to distinguish gene sets that play a role in prognosis from those that do not.

BMC Medical Genomics

It is thought that the non-sterile amniotic fluid may act as a transport medium by which bacteria come into contact with the uterine and skin incisions leading to chorioamnionitis and its sequelae.

Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control

These social media communities offer a new and exciting medium by which knowledge can be shared and transmitted.

F1000Research

The cognitive properties of neural networks, and the success of information processing technologies (e.g., computer science) strongly suggest that bioelectrical communication is a universal and convenient medium by which to control complex events like pattern formation.

Communicative and Integrative Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a medium by which", ensure that the connection between the medium and the outcome is clear and direct to avoid ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a medium by which" in simple sentences where a more direct construction would suffice. For example, instead of "Email is a medium by which we communicate", consider "We communicate via email".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a medium by which" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating the means or instrument used to achieve a particular outcome. Ludwig shows examples in various contexts, demonstrating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a medium by which" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a means or channel through which something is accomplished, as affirmed by Ludwig. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to science and encyclopedias, indicating a neutral to formal register. When writing, ensure the connection between the medium and the outcome is clearly established and avoid using this phrase in overly simple sentences where more direct phrasing would be more effective. Consider alternatives such as "a means by which" or "a channel through which" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a means by which

Replaces "medium" with "means", emphasizing the method used.

a channel through which

Substitutes "medium" with "channel", highlighting the pathway for transmission or communication.

a method by which

Uses "method" to refer to the specific procedure or approach used.

a vehicle through which

Uses "vehicle" instead of "medium", suggesting a tool or instrument for achieving something.

a mechanism by which

Replaces "medium" with "mechanism", focusing on the process or system involved.

a conduit for

Employs "conduit", conveying the idea of a passage or channel for something to flow through.

a pathway for

Uses "pathway" to emphasize the route or course taken to achieve a result.

a route through which

Replaces "medium" with "route", underscoring the path or direction taken.

an avenue for

Uses "avenue" instead of "medium", highlighting the pathway for accessing or achieving something.

a way in which

Substitutes "medium" with "way", offering a more general alternative.

FAQs

How can I use "a medium by which" in a sentence?

Use "a medium by which" to describe a means or channel through which something is accomplished or expressed. For instance, "Art is "a medium by which" emotions can be conveyed".

What are some alternatives to "a medium by which"?

Alternatives include "a means by which", "a channel through which", or "a vehicle through which", depending on the specific context.

Is "a medium by which" formal or informal?

"A medium by which" is generally considered a more formal construction. In less formal contexts, you might prefer simpler phrases like "through" or "using".

What is the difference between "a medium by which" and "a mechanism by which"?

"A medium by which" refers to a means of transmission or expression, while "a mechanism by which" refers to a process or system through which something is accomplished. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing communication or process.