a system by which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a system by which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method or process that facilitates a particular function or outcome. Example: "We have developed a system by which employees can submit their feedback anonymously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

One of his many diplomatic feats was to help create a "Concert of Europe"—a system by which four or five big powers kept miscreants in check and managed the affairs of smaller states.

The Economist

That meant creating a system by which all those elegant barges could transfer their loads for transit to other states.

The New York Times

So the family developed a system by which emergency personnel could telephone 24 hours a day to get information.

The New York Times

They had a system by which a pattern of keys could produce an entire word at once.

The Guardian

Indeed, a system by which Asian students are denied access on account of racial stereotype would be abhorrent and unlawful.

The New York Times

No politician has incentive to change a system by which he or she obtained office and that dramatically enhances the prospect of remaining there.

The New York Times

Musk also outlined a system by which fuel could be synthesized on Mars from water and carbon dioxide in order to fuel return journeys to Earth.

The Guardian - Tech

Now we have a system by which we check with coaches and some national books and if something just doesn't seem right, we won't post it".

The New York Times - Tech

Mark Moraes, of Forest Hills, Queens, created a system by which advertising is downloaded through an e-mail server when a subscriber is online.

The New York Times

He did join the lower house after the last election in 2005 under a system by which parties are allotted seats based on a percentage of voter support.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"There is a system...by which individuals can petition the courts to get relief like others have done in the past that shows that someone might actually be innocent.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex processes, use "a system by which" to clearly indicate how different components interact to achieve a specific outcome. For instance, "The company implemented a system by which customer feedback is directly integrated into product development."

Common error

Avoid using "a system by which" in simple sentences where a more direct phrasing would suffice. For example, instead of saying "We have a system by which we collect data," consider "We collect data."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a system by which" functions as a relative clause, introducing a description or explanation of how a particular system operates. It connects a noun (the system) to a clause that details its function or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a system by which" is a versatile phrase used to describe a structured process or method. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, from news and media to science and business. While highly versatile, be aware of potentially simpler alternatives in very basic sentence structures. Remember, using clearer, more direct ways to convey information to your audience will have a greater impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a method through which

Replaces "system" with "method", emphasizing a specific way of doing something.

a means by which

Substitutes "system" with "means", highlighting the resources or methods employed.

a process whereby

Uses "process" instead of "system", focusing on a series of actions. "Whereby" is a more formal synonym for "by which".

an approach that

Replaces "system" with "approach", suggesting a particular way of dealing with something.

a mechanism for

Substitutes "system" with "mechanism", focusing on the operational aspect.

a framework within which

Uses "framework" instead of "system", indicating a basic structure underlying a system.

a methodology by which

Replaces "system" with "methodology", emphasizing a structured and organized approach.

a way in which

Provides a more general and less formal alternative using "way".

a structure that enables

Shifts focus to the enabling aspect of the structure, rather than the system itself.

an avenue through which

Replaces system with avenue highlighting a route towards a specific goal

FAQs

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

Use "a system by which" to describe a structured process or method that enables something to happen. For instance, "The university implemented "a system by which" students can apply for financial aid online."

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

Alternatives include "a method through which", "a means by which", or "a process whereby", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "a system by which" formal or informal?

"A system by which" is generally considered neutral to formal. More informal alternatives might include "a way that" or "how something works."

What's the difference between "a system by which" and "a method for"?

"A system by which" describes a more comprehensive or structured process, while "a method for" typically refers to a specific technique or approach. The former implies interconnected steps, whereas the latter can be a single action.