a viable means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a viable means' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an available or practical way of achieving something. For example: "Finding a viable means of transportation is essential in order to reach our destination on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Bribery remains a viable means of evading punishment, too.

The Guardian

Air drops are a viable means of emergency food supply.

The Guardian

"Welding continues to be a viable means of expression for many artists," she writes.

The New York Times - Arts

And will it encourage councils to consider consortia as a viable means of delivering services?

The Guardian

Peter Hendy, London's transport commissioner, was almost as effusive: "It is a viable means of public transport," he enthused defensively.

The Guardian - Opinion

But more research is needed if such chemical attractants are to become a viable means of control.

The New York Times - Science

Directors are taking advantage of the distance the musical form imposes, rather than solving the problem that prevents musicals from being a viable means of conveying contemporary concerns.

The New York Times

At a time when access to mental health treatment is under increasing strain and stigmas still abound, could YouTube videos about anxiety be a viable means of treatment for sufferers?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The present method provides a viable means to explore various practical ideal quantum gas flows.

Journal of Computational Physics

Our approach provides a viable means to inhibit irreversibly the amyloidogenic process of Aβ.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Heterogeneous catalytic dechlorination is presented as a viable means of treating/detoxifying concentrated chlorinated gas streams.

Chemical Engineering Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a viable means", ensure the context clearly establishes what the means are viable for. Be specific about the goal or outcome the means are intended to achieve.

Common error

Avoid embedding "a viable means" within overly complex sentences. Break down long sentences for clarity and impact. Sometimes, a simpler phrasing enhances readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a viable means" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a practical and effective method or approach for achieving a specific outcome, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a viable means" is a common phrase used to describe a practical and effective method for achieving a specific goal. Ludwig confirms that it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. Its frequency is high, with usage spanning across scientific, news, and business domains. When employing the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what the means are viable for. Consider alternatives like "a feasible method" or "a practical approach" to add nuance. While versatile, avoid overuse in overly complex sentences for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a feasible method

Focuses on the practicality and possibility of the method.

a practical approach

Highlights the real-world applicability of the approach.

a workable solution

Emphasizes that the solution can be successfully implemented.

an effective strategy

Stresses the potential for achieving desired results.

a realistic option

Highlights the attainability and grounded nature of the choice.

a sound alternative

Implies that the alternative is reasonable and well-founded.

a promising avenue

Suggests that the method holds potential for success.

a sustainable way

Focuses on the long-term maintainability and impact of the method.

a reliable process

Emphasizes the consistency and dependability of the process.

a tenable route

Indicates that the path is defensible and can be maintained.

FAQs

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

Use "a viable means" when describing a practical or effective method for achieving a specific goal. For example, "Investing in renewable energy is "a viable means" of reducing carbon emissions".

What are some alternatives to "a viable means"?

You can use alternatives such as "a practical approach", "a feasible method", or "a workable solution" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "a viable means" and "an effective strategy"?

"A viable means" refers to a method that is both practical and capable of achieving a desired result. "An effective strategy" specifically highlights the ability to achieve the intended outcome, but doesn't necessarily focus on practicality.

When is it appropriate to use "a viable means" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a viable means" in formal or professional writing when you want to emphasize that a particular method is not only possible but also practical and likely to succeed. It is well-suited for discussions about problem-solving, strategy, or planning.