as an instrument of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as an instrument of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that serves a specific purpose or function in a particular context. Example: "The new policy was implemented as an instrument of change within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She was there as an instrument of humiliation.

The New Yorker

"Torture and gang rape as an instrument of state terror".

The New York Times

But how useful is that as an instrument of policy?

The New Yorker

Star denounced it as an instrument of blackmail.

The New Yorker

This sounds very Obamaesque — rationality as an instrument of caring.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not surprisingly, Debord regarded urbanism as an instrument of control.

The New York Times - Magazine

Most of them describe it as an instrument of torture.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Construction was also used as an instrument of regional aid.

The Economist

"But I worry that controversy around the memorial might impair it as an instrument of healing".

The New York Times

"Education, which is always presented as an instrument of liberation and universality, is really a privilege".

The New York Times - Arts

The IMF is perceived as an instrument of US intervention with no jurisdiction over Greek affairs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as an instrument of", ensure that the relationship between the subject and its intended function is clear to the reader. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient context and examples to illustrate how the subject serves its designated purpose.

Common error

While "as an instrument of" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal or pretentious in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "as a way to" or "as a tool for" in such situations to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an instrument of" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating the purpose or means by which something is accomplished. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Huffington Post

6%

The New Yorker

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as an instrument of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote the function or purpose of something, frequently found in formal writing and news media. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While "as an instrument of" is widely used, it's important to consider the context and choose alternatives like "as a means of" or "as a tool for" in more informal settings. Remember that the key to effective writing is clarity and appropriateness, so always consider your audience and the message you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a means of

Emphasizes the method or way something is used to achieve a particular outcome.

as a vehicle for

Suggests that something is used to carry or convey a particular idea or purpose.

as a tool for

Highlights the practical application and utility of something in achieving a specific goal.

to be used for

A more direct way of stating the purpose or function of something.

serving as a mechanism for

Implies a more complex and structured role in facilitating a particular process.

in the capacity of

Focuses on the role or position something holds in relation to a specific function.

functioning as a channel for

Suggests that something acts as a pathway or conduit for transmitting something else.

working as a lever for

Implies that something is used to exert influence or bring about a desired change.

acting as an agent of

Suggests a more active and intentional role in bringing about a particular result.

being employed for

A formal way to indicate that something is utilized for a specific reason.

FAQs

How can I use "as an instrument of" in a sentence?

The phrase "as an instrument of" is used to describe something that serves a specific purpose or function. For example, "The government used propaganda "as an instrument of" control".

What can I say instead of "as an instrument of"?

You can use alternatives like "as a means of", "as a vehicle for", or "as a tool for" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "as an instrument of" or "as a tool for"?

The choice between "as an instrument of" and "as a tool for" depends on the desired tone and context. "As an instrument of" sounds more formal and intentional, while "as a tool for" is more practical and straightforward.

What's the difference between "as an instrument of" and "as a result of"?

"As an instrument of" indicates purpose or function, while "as a result of" indicates cause and effect. They are used in entirely different contexts.