by collecting

USAGE SUMMARY

"by collecting" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to explain how an action is being achieved. For example, "We are raising money for charity by collecting donations from members of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Start by collecting things that appeal to you visually.

WikiHow

"I started by collecting weapons," he said.

The New York Times

He began by collecting stamps and he still keeps them.

The Guardian

Strachwitz assembled his archive by collecting music he loved.

The New Yorker

She began by "collecting metaphors" on scraps of paper.

The New York Times - Magazine

The government would benefit by collecting taxes on the industry.

The Guardian

Lastly, I wrote this piece by collecting chunks of evidence.

The New Yorker

Start by collecting seeds from the strongest and prettiest plants.

The New York Times

Others could qualify for the ballot by collecting signatures.

The New York Times

Perhaps the city could do better by collecting big fines from big offenders than by collecting little fines from struggling merchants.

The New York Times

35 mins: Kay has paid for his misdemeanour by collecting a whopping shiner.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by collecting", ensure that the subject performing the action is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "by collecting" when the action is not a genuine collection. For instance, don't say "improved performance by thinking positively" if the action involves more than just positive thoughts. Use a more encompassing verb instead, such as "achieved improvement through positive strategies".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by collecting" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the means or method by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. As supported by Ludwig AI, this typically explains how an action is being carried out.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

28%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by collecting" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a method or process of achieving a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, from accumulating donations to gathering data. Its frequent appearance in news, scientific literature, and general writing underscores its broad applicability. When using "by collecting", ensure that the subject and the object being collected are clear to avoid ambiguity and maximize the impact of your writing. Consider alternatives such as "through collection" or "via accumulating" for nuanced expression. Overall, mastering the usage of "by collecting" enhances clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through collection

This alternative uses a noun form of "collecting", emphasizing the process rather than the action.

through the process of collecting

This option is more verbose and emphasizes the procedural aspect of collection.

via accumulating

This alternative emphasizes the gradual increase of items over time.

in the act of gathering

Focuses on the activity of gathering rather than its consequence.

by means of gathering

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the method used.

by assembling

This alternative emphasizes the act of putting things together.

by way of amassing

This alternative suggests a large-scale accumulation.

by accumulating evidence

Highlights evidence based context.

using a compilation of

This alternative highlights the final product of the collection process.

acquiring through gathering

Stresses the acquisition aspect resulting from gathering.

FAQs

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

You can use "by collecting" to describe how something is achieved. For example, "The museum expanded its collection "by collecting donations" from patrons".

What are some alternatives to "by collecting"?

Some alternatives include "through collection", "via accumulating", or "by means of gathering", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to specify what is being collected when using "by collecting"?

While not always required, specifying what is being collected provides clarity and context to your writing. Omission can lead to ambiguity.

How does "by collecting" differ from "through collecting"?

Both phrases are similar, but "by collecting" emphasizes the action as a direct means, whereas "through collecting" emphasizes the process.