by calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

'by calculation' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how you arrived at a conclusion or answer. For example, "I determined the answer to the problem by calculation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This difference was significant by calculation on individual values, but not when calculated on flock means.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

We make decisions by calculation".

The New York Times

Those easily shocked by calculation in pop should look away now.

The Guardian

As Taylor says, "spontaneity had been replaced by calculation," a clue that the party was over.

The New York Times - Books

But the widely praised design of 50 East 42nd Street may have been dictated by calculation rather than idealism.

The New York Times

But, to my eyes, Guinness – either by calculation or unknowing osmosis – has also shown Rylance what to do on television.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Group-to-group relations are more often marked by calculation, rivalry and coldness.

The New York Times

It's intermittently ruthless — consistently since June 12 — but proceeds by calculation, much of it about survival.

The New York Times

His move this weekend may have been prompted more by desperation than by calculation.

The Economist

They are organized by elites, and propelled by calculation, not patriotism.

The New York Times

By calculation,,, and ; let.

Boundary Value Problems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by calculation" to clearly indicate that a result or conclusion was reached through mathematical or logical computation, ensuring clarity and precision in technical or analytical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "by calculation" when you actually mean "by estimation" or "by approximation". "By calculation" implies a precise, quantifiable process, whereas estimation involves a less exact, more subjective assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by calculation" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the method or means by which an action is performed or a result is obtained. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

26%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0.009%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by calculation" is a grammatically correct and widely used prepositional phrase that indicates a result was obtained through a deliberate process of mathematical or logical computation. Ludwig indicates its validity. It's most frequently found in scientific and news media contexts, signaling precision and objectivity. When writing, ensure its usage accurately reflects a quantitative method, avoiding confusion with estimations. Consider alternatives like "through computation" or "based on calculations" for nuanced expression. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this phrase helps emphasize the analytical rigor behind a conclusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on calculations

This phrase stresses that a decision, assessment, or result is founded upon mathematical or logical computations.

through computation

This alternative emphasizes the process of using mathematical or logical operations to reach a result.

via computation

Similar to "through computation", this option highlights the computational method as the means of achieving an outcome.

based on analysis

Similar to "through analysis", but emphasizes the result of the analysis more than the process.

through analysis

This indicates a process of detailed examination to understand something.

by mathematical means

This alternative specifies that the method used involves mathematics.

using a formula

This phrase highlights the use of a specific mathematical rule or equation.

by numerical method

Implies a specific, systematic method of computation.

arithmetically

This focuses on the use of basic arithmetic operations.

through systematic assessment

This alternative highlights a deliberate and organized method of assessment to reach a particular answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "by calculation" to indicate that something was determined mathematically. For instance, "The area was determined "by calculation", using the standard formula."

What are some alternatives to saying "by calculation"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "through computation", "based on calculations", or "via computation" to express a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "by calculation" or "through calculation"?

Both "by calculation" and "through calculation" are grammatically correct. However, "by calculation" is more common. They both indicate that a result was obtained using computation as a method.

What does "obtained by calculation" mean?

"Obtained by calculation" means that a specific value or result was determined through a process of mathematical or logical computation, rather than through direct measurement or observation. For example, "The figure was "obtained by calculation" of the relevant parameters."