by complying with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by complying with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to mean that someone is obeying a rule or regulation. For example: "By complying with the building codes, the construction was finished safely and on schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One's duty is to obey Shariah by complying with orders and shunning that which is forbidden".

The New York Times

In Taipei, commuters started the working week by complying with a government order to wear masks on the city's subway.

The Guardian

By complying with these coercive requirements, we were able to adopt our four-year-old son, from China, in 2008.

The New Yorker

Most importantly, the Court only asked whether Google would violate laws in other countries by complying with the Canadian injunction.

Stanford University

Although the functions are below our expectations, we deliver a good game by complying with several standards.

Cornell University

The Government argues that it has a compelling interest in meeting its international obligations by complying with the Convention.

Cornell University

If he is to survive this scandal, he needs to start by complying with the city's disclosure laws.

The New York Times

More often than not they seem more motivated by complying with the NPPF and working with the quarrying companies".

Independent

But the U.S. counter-arguments that by complying with U.N. resolutions Saddam could get those sanctions lifted at any time are never heard.

The New York Times

The review recommends that statutory organisations highlight charities' responsibility to support the regulator – both financially and by complying with its rules.

The Guardian

One was that the fund "should respect host-country rules by complying with all applicable regulatory and disclosure requirements of the countries in which they invest".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Maintain a consistent tone, avoiding overly formal or informal language to suit your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "by complying with" without specifying what is being complied with. For example, instead of saying "The company improved its image by complying with regulations", specify which regulations: "The company improved its image by complying with environmental protection regulations."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by complying with" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the means or method by which something is achieved. It modifies a verb, adjective, or noun to specify that adherence to a particular set of rules, regulations, or standards is the way in which a certain result is obtained. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

36%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by complying with" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies achieving a goal through adherence to specific regulations, rules, or standards. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. This phrase is commonly found in formal contexts like news, academic writing, and scientific publications, emphasizing the importance of following established guidelines. To enhance clarity, it is best practice to explicitly state what is being complied with. Alternative phrases include "in accordance with", "in compliance with", and "adhering to", each providing a slightly different shade of meaning. By understanding the nuances of "by complying with", you can effectively communicate the importance of following established protocols in various professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in compliance with

Highlights the state of adhering to mandatory requirements or regulations.

abiding by

Similar to adhering, but can also imply a sense of commitment or obligation.

in accordance with

Emphasizes acting in agreement or conformity with a set of rules or standards.

conforming to

Indicates aligning oneself with established norms or standards.

adhering to

Focuses on the act of sticking firmly to a rule, agreement, or belief.

meeting the requirements of

Specifically highlights fulfilling the necessary criteria or stipulations.

following

Implies obedience or adherence to a set of guidelines or instructions.

observing

Suggests careful attention to and adherence to rules, laws, or customs.

respecting

Implies showing regard for and acting in accordance with rules, laws, or rights.

upholding

Focuses on maintaining or defending standards or principles through one's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "by complying with" in a sentence?

Use "by complying with" to show that an action or outcome is a direct result of following specific rules, laws, or standards. For instance, "The project was approved "by complying with" all safety regulations".

What are some alternatives to "by complying with"?

Alternatives include "in accordance with", "in compliance with", or "adhering to", each carrying a slightly different nuance but serving a similar function.

Is it better to say "complying to" or "complying with"?

"Complying with" is the correct and standard usage. "Complying to" is grammatically incorrect. You can say instead "conforming to".

What's the difference between "by complying with" and "by adhering to"?

While both phrases indicate following rules or guidelines, "by complying with" often suggests meeting formal requirements or regulations, whereas "by adhering to" can also imply sticking to principles or beliefs. "By "adhering to" our values" is different from "by "complying with" the law".