by attaching to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by attaching to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of connecting or adhering something to another object or concept. Example: "The document was enhanced by attaching to it additional references and citations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Basically, by attaching to these, the drugs block the transmission of pain messages to the brain".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Any viruses that show an affinity towards the material by attaching to it are gathered up.

The Economist

Opioids function in the body by attaching to specific proteins, called opioid receptors.

The New York Times

Zolpidem is part of a third generation of synthetic compounds that treat insomnia by attaching to GABA receptors.

The New Yorker

Once the pore is formed, the silver nanoparticle can enhance bacterial cell death by attaching to its DNA30.

Nature

Hepatocytes were immobilized within the highly complex macroscopic architecture of LS by attaching to its rough fiber surface.

Biochemical Engineering Journal

He knows that the noun "patriarchy" carries negative meanings, so he hastens to defend it by attaching to it the adjective "proper".

The New York Times - Books

Opioids, derived from the poppy plant, reduce the perception of pain by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord and elsewhere in the body.

The Washington Post

Proteins called transcription factors control genes by attaching to DNA; discovering where each of these proteins binds is critical to understanding how genes regulate working cells.

MIT Technology Review

Seeds are primarily spread by water, but also known to be spread by attaching to animals and humans, so distribution into human disturbed sites is favorable.

Columbia University

We stated that rights to intangibles 'are but relationships between persons, natural or corporate, which the law recognizes by attaching to them certain sanctions enforceable in courts.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by attaching to", ensure that the subject doing the attaching and the object being attached to are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "by attaching to" when a simple connection or association is intended. For instance, instead of saying "The document was enhanced by attaching to it additional references", consider "The document was enhanced by including additional references" if the references are not physically attached.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by attaching to" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating the means or method by which an action is performed. It describes how something is connected or linked to another element. Ludwig provides various examples demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

29%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by attaching to" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a method of connection or adherence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse fields such as science, news, and academia. Its function is to specify the mechanism through which an action is performed. While versatile, it's important to ensure clarity by precisely defining what is attaching to what. Alternatives include "by connecting with" and "by adhering to", each offering slightly different connotations. Understanding these nuances helps in effectively conveying the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by connecting with

Replaces "attaching" with "connecting", a more general term for joining.

by adhering to

Emphasizes sticking or clinging firmly to something.

by linking to

Similar to "connecting", but emphasizes the formation of a link or chain.

via adherence to

Replaces "attaching" with "adherence", emphasizing the act of sticking or clinging.

through adherence to

Implies a firm and persistent connection or commitment.

by affixing to

Implies a more deliberate and secure form of attachment.

through linkage with

Uses "linkage" to highlight a connection or bond between two things.

by bonding to

Suggests a stronger, more permanent connection than simply attaching.

through binding with

Common in scientific contexts, specifically referencing a chemical or biological bond.

via association with

Highlights a relationship or correlation rather than a physical connection.

FAQs

How can I use "by attaching to" in a sentence?

Use "by attaching to" to describe the process of connecting something to another object or concept. For example, "The sensor measures acceleration "by attaching to" the top row of teeth".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "by attaching to"?

You can use alternatives like "by connecting with", "by linking to", or "by adhering to" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "by attaching to" and "by connecting to"?

"By attaching to" often implies a more physical or direct connection, whereas "by connecting to" can refer to a more general link or association.

When is it appropriate to use "by attaching to" instead of "through"?

Use "by attaching to" when you want to emphasize the act of physically or directly connecting something. Use "through" when indicating a means or method, such as "through adherence to regulations".