by adjusting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by adjusting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a method or process of making changes or modifications to achieve a desired outcome. Example: "The system can improve its performance by adjusting the settings according to user preferences."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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The Guardian

Its genius will not be dimmed by adjusting the calendar.

The Guardian - Sport

Changes in terrain are simulated by adjusting a tension wheel that each rider controls.

The New York Times

(By adjusting for other factors, the researchers determined the accuracy rate at 99percentt).

The New York Times

The length of the grass is determined by adjusting the rotor's height.

The New York Times - Arts

You can also disguise an unbalanced dish by adjusting the accompaniments.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As people get older, they lose their abilities slowly, and compensate by adjusting their behavior.

The New York Times

The insurgents have responded by adjusting the methods of their attacks.

The New York Times

The temperature in the building itself is calibrated by adjusting roof sunscreens and garden doors.

The New York Times

And it can be blocked by adjusting the visibility preferences in your IM client.

The New York Times - Tech

By adjusting the arm, even the devilish fitted sheet is a triumph.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by adjusting" to clearly indicate that a change or modification is the means to achieve a specific result. For example, "Improve fuel efficiency by adjusting driving habits."

Common error

Avoid using "by adjusting" in unnecessarily passive constructions. Instead of "The settings were improved by adjusting the controls", prefer the active voice: "Improve the settings by adjusting the controls".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by adjusting" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a gerund, indicating the method or means by which a particular action or outcome is achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by adjusting" is a versatile and common prepositional phrase used to indicate the method or means by which something is modified or controlled. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related writing. While alternatives like "through modification" or "by altering" exist, "by adjusting" specifically emphasizes the action of making changes. When using this phrase, avoid passive voice constructions and clearly indicate what is being adjusted to achieve the desired result. Its widespread usage and neutral tone make it suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by modifying

Highlights the act of making changes to something.

by altering

Implies a change, often a slight one, to something.

through adaptation

Suggests a change to better suit new conditions or purposes.

through modification

Focuses on the process of changing something, highlighting the alteration itself.

by fine-tuning

Suggests making small, precise adjustments for optimal performance.

via alteration

Emphasizes the means by which a change is brought about.

by tweaking

Implies making minor adjustments or refinements.

with calibration

Highlights a precise adjustment to ensure accuracy.

with modulation

Emphasizes the controlled variation or adjustment of something.

through regulation

Focuses on controlling something by adjusting rules or parameters.

FAQs

How can I use "by adjusting" in a sentence?

Use "by adjusting" to explain how a specific outcome is achieved through modification. For example: "You can improve the image quality "by adjusting the contrast"."

What are some alternatives to "by adjusting"?

Consider alternatives such as "through modification", "by altering", or "through adaptation" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "adjusting" or "by adjusting"?

The phrase "by adjusting" specifies the method or means, whereas "adjusting" on its own refers to the act of making adjustments. The choice depends on whether you need to emphasize the method. Example: Improve efficiency by adjusting the settings.

What's the difference between "by adjusting" and "by adapting"?

"By adjusting" implies making small changes to something, while "by adapting" suggests making changes to become suitable for a new environment or purpose. Adapting often involves more significant changes than adjusting.