as if by magic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as if by magic" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that seems to happen magically or effortlessly, often with a tone of amazement or surprise. Example: "The magician pulled a rabbit out of his hat, as if by magic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Independent

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The card arrived as if by magic.

The New York Times - Arts

Blackout curtains unfurl as if by magic.

The New York Times

Its anxieties disappeared, as if by magic.

The New York Times - Magazine

As if by magic, it had been filled in.

The New York Times

As if by magic, sixty billion dollars will be created.

The New Yorker

It is already in Krista's hand, as if by magic.

The New York Times - Magazine

They slide from the bag as if by magic, too.

Independent

Almost as if by magic, Suffolk has become one.

The Guardian

When Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent stumble upon the property, it's as if by magic accident.

The New York Times - Books

As if by magic, Party regulars were suddenly decrying the emptiness at the core of things.

The New Yorker

Thanks to the gratitude of those she assisted, the rooms became furnished as if by magic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as if by magic" to describe events that happen unexpectedly and seamlessly, creating a sense of wonder or disbelief in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as if by magic" in contexts that demand serious, analytical explanations. The phrase can undermine the credibility of your analysis if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as if by magic" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the manner in which an action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The phrase adds a sense of wonder, surprise, or disbelief to the event being described.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Encyclopedias

5%

Independent

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as if by magic" is a commonly used expression that describes something happening quickly, easily, and seemingly without effort. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in news and media sources, the expression lends a sense of wonder and surprise to the event being described. While generally appropriate for neutral contexts, its informality may render it unsuitable for certain types of formal or academic writing. Alternatives such as ""as if by wizardry"" or ""suddenly and inexplicably"" can offer a similar meaning with varying degrees of formality. When wielding this expression, remember to carefully consider your audience and the tone you wish to convey, ensuring that its use enhances rather than detracts from your overall message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as if by wizardry

Emphasizes the use of magic or sorcery in achieving the outcome.

as if by a miracle

Highlights the unexpected and fortunate nature of the event.

in a seemingly magical manner

Focuses on the appearance of magic rather than actual magic.

appearing out of nowhere

Emphasizes the sudden appearance and lack of visible origin.

suddenly and inexplicably

Highlights the abruptness and the lack of explanation for the occurrence.

out of the blue

Indicates an unexpected and sudden event.

in the blink of an eye

Emphasizes the speed and swiftness of the occurrence.

as if conjured

Implies that something was brought into existence by magical means.

without warning

Focuses on the lack of any prior indication or signal.

all of a sudden

Indicates an event occurred quickly and unexpectedly.

FAQs

How can I use "as if by magic" in a sentence?

You can use "as if by magic" to describe something that happens quickly, easily, and seemingly without any effort. For example, "The problem disappeared, as if by magic."

What phrases are similar to "as if by magic"?

Similar phrases include "as if by wizardry", "as if by miracle", or "suddenly and inexplicably".

Is it appropriate to use "as if by magic" in formal writing?

While "as if by magic" is widely understood, it might be too informal for certain types of formal or academic writing. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece.

What is the difference between "as if by magic" and "<a href=/s/as+though+by+magic" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">as though by magic"?

The phrases "as if by magic" and "as though by magic" are largely interchangeable. Both are used to express the idea that something happened in a way that seems magical or inexplicable.