Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
by applying only
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "by applying only" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying that a particular method or approach is the sole means of achieving a result. Example: "You can improve your skills by applying only the techniques taught in this course."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
23 human-written examples
We have processed the sound signal from the piezo pickups by applying only the following processing.
Academia
We were able to demonstrate this in this pilot study by applying only a comparatively simple and economically viable method.
Science
By utilising the natural regeneration processes and by applying only a few controlling silvicultural measures, a low-energy and cost-effective conversion of the forests can be accomplished.
In MFMMS, we minimize the FMR-response by using a special cavity-mode, where the magnetic microwave field is parallel to the external field, and by applying only a small external magnetic DC-field15.
Science & Research
The CTRL/iCTRL formalism can model them successfully and they are able to control many other different shades of meaning by applying only a minimal number of syntactic tools.
Science
However, the performance of the BDD electrode was better than that of the Ti Pt/β-PbO2 elecTi Pt/β-PbO2otal delectrodeathens were achieved by applying only 1.0 A h L−1 and 2.0 A h L−1, respectotaly.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
37 human-written examples
Rather he found that these by-laws applied only if Jana sought to include the proposals in CNet's proxy.
News & Media
One strained reading of this sentence is that naturalism's fundamental conviction by definition applies only to natural science and mathematics.
Science
While the main results obtained by Belavkin apply only to the commutative measurement case, the problem formulation he used was more general.
Science
Collyer also concluded that the trademark law cited by Farah applied only to commercial speech, not to satirical non-commercial speech.
News & Media
So, the ORF-by-ORF procedure is applied only to the sequences longer than 5000 bp (containing multiple genes).
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "by applying only" to clearly specify the limited scope of methods used to achieve a particular result. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity about other potential factors.
Common error
Avoid using "by applying only" when other contributing factors are also involved. Ensure that the stated method is genuinely the sole determinant of the outcome, or you risk misleading your audience.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "by applying only" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating a specific method or action is performed under strict limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in varied contexts.
Frequent in
Science
68%
News & Media
20%
Academia
8%
Less common in
Wiki
4%
Encyclopedias
4%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "by applying only" serves to specify that a limited or singular method is used to achieve a result. Grammatically correct and frequently found in science, news, and academic contexts, this prepositional phrase ensures that the focus is on the limited actions. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's consistent usage across diverse domains, signaling that it effectively communicates precise methodology. While "by applying only" is best suited for formal writing, alternative phrases like "solely through" or "simply by applying" can convey a similar meaning in less formal settings. Remember to use "by applying only" accurately, ensuring that the limited action genuinely explains the entire outcome.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
by utilizing solely
Emphasizes the exclusive use of a specific resource or method.
by using exclusively
Highlights the restriction to a particular tool or approach.
through the sole application of
Formal phrasing emphasizing the single method being applied.
with the exclusive use of
Focuses on the restricted set of resources employed.
by means of just
Emphasizes simplicity and limitation in the method used.
by strictly applying
Highlights adherence to a limited set of rules or principles.
by merely employing
Suggests a basic or minimal approach.
through a singular application of
Similar to 'sole application' but emphasizes the unique instance.
solely via application of
Highlights that the method is the only means.
by confining application to
Emphasizes the restriction of the application to a specific context.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "by applying only" for conciseness?
Consider using phrases like "solely through", "using exclusively", or "simply by applying" depending on the context and desired emphasis.
Is there a difference between "by applying only" and "by only applying"?
While both are grammatically correct, "by applying only" generally emphasizes the limited nature of the application, whereas "by only applying" can sometimes place more emphasis on the act of applying itself. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.
In what contexts is "by applying only" most appropriate?
This phrase is well-suited for scientific papers, technical documentation, or any situation where you need to precisely define the parameters or limitations of a process or experiment. It is also useful in business or legal contexts when specifying conditions.
What are some alternatives to "by applying only" that sound less formal?
For less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "just by using", "simply by applying", or "with nothing but" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested