a method that

USAGE SUMMARY

"a method that" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is often used to introduce or describe a particular method or process. Example: A common approach to solving this problem is through a method that involves breaking it down into smaller steps.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A method that is keeping Cosendai very busy indeed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A method that is defined without the modifer @classmethod.

Cornell University

A method that is declared with modifier @classmethod.

Cornell University

It's a method that has worked for other diseases.

The New York Times - Magazine

So he devised a method that enabled him to retain even long sections of prose.

The New York Times - Books

Among the techniques was one known as waterboarding, a method that induced a feeling of drowning.

The New York Times

Japan is claiming successful tests using a method that gently depressurises the frozen gas.

The Guardian - Business

Those who find a method that works become zealous believers in it.

The New York Times

It is a method that has worked well in the past.

The Guardian - Travel

"It [Tostan] appears to be a method that will work," said Featherstone.

The Guardian

In previous attempts, the investigators had used a method that worked well in mice.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a method that", ensure that the clause following "that" clearly and concisely explains the purpose or function of the method.

Common error

Avoid using overly general language when describing the method. Be specific about what the method accomplishes or how it works.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a method that" functions as a relative clause, introducing additional information or describing a specific characteristic of the method being referred to. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a method that" serves as a versatile relative clause used to describe and specify a particular method, as confirmed by Ludwig. It appears frequently across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While generally neutral in register, context dictates the specific nuance. Alternatives such as "a technique that" or "an approach that" can be used to fine-tune meaning. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The key to effective usage lies in clearly defining the characteristics or purpose of the method being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a technique that

Replaces "method" with "technique", emphasizing a specific procedure or skill.

an approach that

Substitutes "method" with "approach", focusing on a way of dealing with a situation.

a process that

Uses "process" instead of "method", highlighting a series of actions or steps.

a way that

Employs "way" as a more general alternative to "method".

a system that

Replaces "method" with "system", suggesting a structured or organized approach.

a strategy that

Uses "strategy" instead of "method", emphasizing a plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.

a means by which

Offers a more formal alternative to "a method that".

a procedure that

Substitutes "method" with "procedure", emphasizing a specific, established way of doing something.

a solution that

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of the method.

a mechanism that

Replaces "method" with "mechanism", highlighting the underlying process or system.

FAQs

How can I use "a method that" in a sentence?

Use "a method that" to introduce a specific technique, process, or approach. For example, "We need "a method that" enables us to work in darkness".

What are some alternatives to "a method that"?

Alternatives include phrases like "an approach that", "a technique that", or "a process that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a method that" formal or informal?

"A method that" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its formality depends on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "a method that" and "a way that"?

While similar, "a method that" typically implies a more structured or systematic approach, whereas "a way that" can refer to a more general or informal approach.