by a fair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a fair" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to refer to something being done in a fair manner or in relation to a fair, but it lacks clarity without additional context. Example: "The decision was made by a fair process, ensuring all voices were heard."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I also feel like discussing ethics and fairness is antithetical to a campaign originated in and motivated by a fair bit of misogyny and harassment.

The Guardian - Tech

He was returned by a fair majority.

The Economist

This again exceeds the redemption penalty by a fair margin".

The Guardian - Money

They were joined by a fair number of foreigners.

The New York Times

Ginobili's assist rate (5.9 per 36), meanwhile, was his highest ever – and by a fair margin.

The New York Times

That ambition is shared by a fair number of Kim's countrymen.

The New Yorker

I was definitely the youngest person there, by a fair margin.

The New Yorker

The mini-manifesto was a radical programme fleshed out by a fair amount of detail.

The Guardian

Everyone in this country values "trial by a fair judicial process".

The Guardian

"The bonus pool this year will be down by a fair amount on the previous year.

The New York Times

"We were the better side by a fair stretch in the second half," said Redfearn.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and grammatical precision, avoid the construction "by a fair". Opt for alternatives like "in a fair manner" or "through an equitable process" to ensure your writing is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "by a fair" as it is often perceived as grammatically awkward. Instead, use more conventional phrases that emphasize the process or manner in which something is done fairly, such as /s/in+a+fair+manner or /s/through+an+equitable+process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a fair" functions as an adverbial modifier, aiming to describe how an action is performed. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is not grammatically sound and should be avoided for clearer alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

27%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "by a fair" appears across various sources, it is deemed grammatically questionable, according to Ludwig AI. To ensure clarity and correctness, writers should opt for alternatives such as "in a fair manner" or "through an equitable process". Though frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, choosing more precise phrasing enhances the writing's overall quality and understandability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a fair manner

Replaces "by a fair" with a more direct and commonly accepted expression of fairness.

through an equitable process

Emphasizes the impartiality and justice of the process.

with fairness

A more concise and grammatically standard way to express the concept of fairness.

in a just way

Substitutes "fair" with "just", offering a similar meaning with slightly different connotations.

impartially

Focuses specifically on the lack of bias in the action or decision.

in an unbiased fashion

Highlights the objectivity and neutrality of the approach.

according to principles of justice

Formal and emphasizes adherence to established justice standards.

under fair conditions

Implies that external circumstances are equitable and unbiased.

with due fairness

Adds emphasis to the level of fairness applied.

by means of a fair system

Emphasizes that fairness is guaranteed due to a system set up to ensure it.

FAQs

What does "by a fair" mean?

The phrase "by a fair" isn't grammatically standard and may not be clear to readers. It is commonly intended to convey that something is done in a fair manner or in relation to a fair.

How can I use the idea of fairness in a sentence correctly?

Instead of "by a fair", consider using phrases like "in a fair manner", "through an equitable process", or "with fairness" to convey the concept of fairness more clearly.

Is "by a fair" grammatically correct?

According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "by a fair" is not grammatically correct. You should opt for better alternatives to improve clarity and adhere to standard English.

Which is correct, "by a fair" or "in a fair manner"?

"In a fair manner" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "By a fair" is considered grammatically awkward. Choose "in a fair manner" for better clarity and grammatical correctness.