ad hoc method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ad hoc method" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a solution or approach that is created for a specific purpose or problem, rather than being a general or standardized method. Example: "The team decided to use an ad hoc method to address the unique challenges presented by the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

The paper starts with illustrating that an ad hoc method is unsuccessful.

Journal of Computational Physics

The ad hoc method can work sometimes, but it's hit-or-miss.

Science Magazine

Two calibration methods were compared, namely a heuristic ad hoc method and a nearoptimal method.

European Transport Research Review

It is around 0.04 in the near-optimal method and 0.08 in the ad hoc method.

European Transport Research Review

The ad hoc method was introduced by Lee et al. [11, 12] and used by Allaby [3].

European Transport Research Review

The ad hoc method suggests a 10.8% decrease in safety, while near-optimal method suggests a decrease of almost 54%.

European Transport Research Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Ad hoc constructed questions and review of medical records were grouped together (ad hoc methods), so was one-item questions used to assess acute treatment side effects.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Suddenly geometers could go beyond the single cases and ad hoc methods of previous times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

McGregor has formed a core of about 20 dancers within the company and – in contrast to the insular and rather ad hoc methods of the past – has brought in leading choreographers from outside (Siobhan Davies and Shobana Jeyasingh, for example) to mentor each one.

The Guardian

Many of the algorithms in the literature for synchronization are based on ad hoc methods.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Some of these problems require the development of ad hoc methods.

European Journal of Operational Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, clarify whether using an "ad hoc method" was a deliberate choice due to unique circumstances, or a result of lacking a standardized procedure. This adds clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "ad hoc method" as a blanket justification for poorly planned or executed tasks. Ensure that the situation genuinely warrants a non-standard approach, and that the method's limitations are acknowledged.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ad hoc method" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a particular type of approach or solution, one that is created or implemented for a specific, immediate need. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

78%

News & Media

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ad hoc method" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes a solution or approach designed for a specific, immediate need. As indicated by Ludwig, it is considered correct and is most frequently encountered within scientific and academic contexts. While alternatives like "improvised technique" or "custom approach" exist, the key is to use the phrase appropriately, ensuring that the context justifies the non-standard nature of the approach and avoiding its overuse as a mere excuse for poor planning. The analysis reveals that while the phrase is acceptable, mindful application strengthens clarity and credibility in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Improvised technique

Focuses on the spontaneous and unplanned nature of the method.

Makeshift solution

Highlights the temporary and often imperfect nature of the solution.

Custom approach

Emphasizes the tailored nature of the method for a specific situation.

Specific solution

Focuses on the solution being designed for a particular problem.

Unconventional strategy

Highlights the deviation from standard or typical methods.

Non-standard procedure

Emphasizes the lack of established protocol.

Pragmatic fix

Focuses on the practicality and effectiveness of the solution in the given situation.

Case-specific method

Highlights the method's suitability for a particular case or instance.

Extemporaneous process

Emphasizes the spontaneous and immediate nature of the process.

Ad-lib system

Implies a system that is created or adapted on the spot.

FAQs

How to use "ad hoc method" in a sentence?

You can use "ad hoc method" to describe a solution or approach designed for a specific problem or situation. For example: "The team decided to use an ad hoc method to address the immediate security threat."

What can I say instead of "ad hoc method"?

You can use alternatives like "improvised technique", "makeshift solution", or "custom approach" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use an "ad hoc method"?

An "ad hoc method" is appropriate when dealing with unique, unforeseen circumstances where standard procedures are inadequate or unavailable. It's often used when a quick, specific solution is needed.

What are the disadvantages of using an "ad hoc method"?

Disadvantages include potential inconsistency, lack of scalability, and difficulty in replicating the method for future situations. It may also lack thorough validation compared to standardized methods.