an appropriate method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appropriate method" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a suitable or fitting approach to a particular situation or problem. Example: "After careful consideration, we determined that an appropriate method for data collection would be through surveys."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's an appropriate method for growing tomatoes".

The New York Times

In some circumstances clear-cutting is an appropriate method of logging.

The New Yorker

Also, these designs should be verified through an appropriate method.

Fusion Engineering and Design

Choosing an appropriate method makes increasing the power generation efficient.

Energy Conversion and Management

For the vast majority of patients, old or young, our service is an appropriate method of GP care.

The Guardian

They were offered a range of options, and a majority chose the progress and results of their pupils as an appropriate method for deciding their pay".

The Guardian

To find an appropriate method to stain Hbt. salinarum we started with the idea that an important intrinsic property of a halobacterial cell is its negative membrane potential.

Nature

"Then it occurred to me that it was an appropriate method for looking at the question of the bubble," she said.

The New York Times

This was a choice made by the director in order not to give the impression that abandoning medication was an appropriate method of dealing with schizophrenia.

Britannica

The selection of an appropriate method should not depend solely on statistical considerations.

Ecological Modelling

This study demonstrates that GCV-spline is an appropriate method for smoothing fMRI time series.

NeuroImage

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an appropriate method", ensure that the method directly aligns with the goal you are trying to achieve. Clearly articulate why that particular method is suitable in the given context.

Common error

Avoid claiming a method is 'the only appropriate method' without strong justification. There are often multiple valid approaches, and overstating the case can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriate method" functions as a noun phrase, where 'appropriate' is an adjective modifying the noun 'method'. Ludwig AI shows it is frequently used to describe a process or technique that is suitable for a specific purpose or context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

59%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appropriate method" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a noun phrase. It conveys the idea that a specific approach is well-suited for a particular situation. Ludwig AI examples show it occurs most often in scientific and news-related contexts, with a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the method's suitability is clearly justified. Alternatives such as "a suitable approach" or "a fitting technique" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable approach

Replaces 'method' with 'approach', emphasizing the manner of dealing with something.

a fitting technique

Substitutes 'method' with 'technique', highlighting a specific procedure or skill.

a proper procedure

Uses 'procedure' instead of 'method', focusing on an established or official way of doing something.

an applicable strategy

Replaces 'method' with 'strategy', suggesting a plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.

a relevant solution

Shifts the focus to 'solution', implying a means of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.

a correct way

Uses simpler language, replacing 'appropriate method' with 'correct way'.

a valid means

Substitutes 'method' with 'means', emphasizing the resource or system used to achieve a result.

a helpful tactic

Replaces 'method' with 'tactic', suggesting a carefully planned strategy to achieve a specific end.

a useful system

Shifts the focus to 'system', implying an organized set of procedures.

a practical modality

Replaces 'method' with 'modality', focusing on a particular mode or way of doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "an appropriate method" in a sentence?

You can use "an appropriate method" to describe a suitable way of performing a task or solving a problem. For example, "After evaluating different options, we chose "an appropriate method" for data analysis".

What are some alternatives to "an appropriate method"?

Some alternatives include "a suitable approach", "a fitting technique", or "a proper procedure" depending on the specific context.

When is it best to use "an appropriate method" over other similar phrases?

"An appropriate method" is suitable when you want to emphasize that the chosen technique is not only effective but also ethically and logically sound, especially when alternatives may be questionable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very appropriate method"?

While not grammatically incorrect, using "very" before "appropriate" can sometimes be redundant. "Appropriate" already implies a high degree of suitability. Consider whether the addition of "very" genuinely strengthens your statement or if it can be omitted for conciseness.