according to a pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to a pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing actions, behaviors, or results that follow a specific structure or method. Example: "The data was analyzed according to a pattern that emerged during the initial review."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Notice Pins 9, 10, and 11 are all marked PWM. 4. The following code dims the 3 LEDs according to a pattern.

University of California, Berkeley

A spokeswoman said that according to a pattern in big art thefts, the works would either be recovered very quickly by police or remain missing for years.

The Guardian - Arts

(Almost all Balinese are named according to a pattern: firstborns are Wayan, second children Made, third in line Nyoman and fourth Ketut).

The New York Times - Style

"Al-Qaida is still the prime suspect and the attacks have been carried out according to a pattern that suggests that they are the prime suspect," he said.

The Guardian

In Aldrete's basement, the team built a giant slab of laminated linen and tried to cut the fabric according to a pattern, the way a tailor would.

The New Yorker

They included mothers accused of harming - but not killing - their children, according to a pattern of behaviour known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

In contrast, diet and lifestyle changes were performed according to a consistent pattern by some participants and an episodic pattern by others.

BMC Public Health

But of all the animal artisans, only humans seemed to shape tools according to a set pattern and with a favored hand.

Science Magazine

Moreover, if the next channel is determined according to a specific pattern, the scheme may not work when that pattern is detected by an attacker.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

For example, long-term medication was regularly taken in a consistent pattern, whereas chronic pain management was performed according to a transitional pattern.

BMC Public Health

Participants managed health crises (e.g., angina, pain episodes) according to an on demand pattern and everyday changes due to illness (e.g., adaptation of work and household activities) according to a transitional pattern.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "according to a pattern" to describe structured, predictable sequences or arrangements. This phrase is particularly useful in scientific, technical, or formal contexts where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "according to a pattern" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "following a pattern" or "in a pattern" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to a pattern" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate that an action or arrangement is carried out in a structured, predictable manner. This aligns with Ludwig's examples showing the phrase describing processes, behaviors, or arrangements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

28%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "according to a pattern" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for describing structured and predictable sequences or arrangements. While versatile, it leans towards a neutral to formal register, making it particularly useful in scientific, technical, or formal writing. Related phrases include "following a specific pattern" and "in accordance with a pattern", each with subtle differences in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended tone and context to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following a specific pattern

Focuses on the act of adhering to a particular pattern.

in accordance with a pattern

More formal and emphasizes compliance with a pattern.

consistent with a pattern

Highlights the uniformity and predictability of the pattern.

pursuant to a pattern

A legalistic alternative that indicates adherence to a recognized pattern.

as dictated by a pattern

Suggests a pattern that imposes a requirement or direction.

in line with a pattern

Implies alignment and agreement with a known pattern.

based on a pattern

Highlights the foundational reliance on a pattern for a decision or action.

conforming to a pattern

Emphasizes the act of matching or mirroring a pattern.

as per a pattern

Short, direct alternative indicating adherence to a specified pattern.

guided by a pattern

Suggests a pattern influences the execution or development.

FAQs

How can I use "according to a pattern" in a sentence?

Use "according to a pattern" to describe something that happens or is arranged in a predictable sequence. For example, "The data was organized "according to a pattern" that revealed seasonal trends."

What are some alternatives to "according to a pattern"?

You can use alternatives like "following a pattern", "in line with a pattern", or "consistent with a pattern" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "following a pattern" or "according to a pattern"?

"Following a pattern" is generally more informal and can be used in a broader range of contexts. "According to a pattern" is more formal and precise, suitable for technical or scientific writing. The best choice depends on the tone and audience.

What does "consistent with a pattern" mean, and how is it different from "according to a pattern"?

"Consistent with a pattern" implies that something aligns with an existing or expected pattern, while "according to a pattern" indicates that something is created or organized following a specific pattern. They both indicate similarity, but "according to a pattern" suggests direction.