by decreasing the amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by decreasing the amount" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing methods or strategies to reduce a quantity or level of something. Example: "We can improve efficiency by decreasing the amount of waste produced during the manufacturing process."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By decreasing the amount of HCO-60 and citric acid, the PA of G-CSF decreased.

Biomaterials

Solaria, a startup based in Fremont, CA, intends to cut the cost of solar panels by decreasing the amount of expensive material required.

MIT Technology Review

If taxes are too high, that could decrease efficiency by decreasing the amount of capital that financial firms can use to invest.

Columbia University

The fidelity and reproducibility of amplification is not affected by decreasing the amount of input total RNA in the 0.3-3 micrangems range.

Stanford University

For example, Roundup Ready corn was supposed to be better for the environment by decreasing the amount of herbicide farmers needed to use on their crops.

Harvard University

The decision to raise reserves will affect taxpayers by decreasing the amount of profit that national central banks pass on to their governments.

The New York Times

So any decision to raise reserves could affect taxpayers by decreasing the amount of profit that national central banks pass on to their governments.

The New York Times

Therefore, any decision to raise reserves could theoretically affect taxpayers by decreasing the amount of profit that national central banks pass on to their governments.

The New York Times

The processable polyurethanes with outstanding thermal stability, flame retardancy and chemical resistance were, thus, obtained by decreasing the amount of polyol in polymer structure.

Polymer Degradation and Stability

Some simulations revealed that the improved pattern had the potential to save energy by decreasing the amount of fresh air without significantly affecting air quality and thermal comfort.

Building and Environment

We ascribe a minor role to the residual gases present in vacuum processes, as we are able to decrease the level of reduction by decreasing the amount of contaminations.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for brevity and clarity, consider replacing "by decreasing the amount" with "by reducing" followed by the specific element you're quantifying. For instance, instead of 'by decreasing the amount of water used', opt for 'by reducing water usage'.

Common error

Avoid using "amount" when referring to countable items. "Amount" is for non-countable or mass nouns (e.g., "amount of water"), while "number" is for countable nouns (e.g., "number of errors"). Thus, it's incorrect to say "by decreasing the amount of errors"; instead, say "by decreasing the number of errors".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by decreasing the amount" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose, modifying a verb to explain how an action achieves a particular result. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

29%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by decreasing the amount" serves as a versatile adverbial phrase indicating a method of achieving a goal through reduction. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically sound and widely applicable. Predominantly used in scientific, news, and academic contexts, it maintains a neutral register. When writing, consider conciseness; in many cases, "by reducing" may suffice. However, ensure "amount" is used for non-countable nouns, switching to "number" for countable items. This ensures precision and clarity in conveying your intended meaning. With its prevalence and contextual adaptability, "by decreasing the amount" remains a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by reducing the quantity

Focuses directly on the reduction in number or amount, slightly more direct.

by lessening the quantity

Emphasizes making something less in quantity, suggesting a gradual reduction.

by diminishing the quantity

Suggests a more significant reduction, implying a noticeable decrease.

through a reduction in quantity

Rephrases as a result of reduction, more formal.

by lowering the level

Focuses on reducing a measured level or degree, suitable for abstract concepts.

by cutting back on the quantity

Implies a deliberate and often economical reduction in the amount used or consumed.

by trimming the amount

Suggests a slight and precise reduction, similar to pruning.

by minimizing the amount

Emphasizes the goal of reducing to the smallest possible level.

by curtailing the quantity

Implies a restriction or limitation imposed to reduce the amount.

by tapering off the amount

Suggests a gradual reduction over time, often used in medical or dosage contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "by decreasing the amount" in a sentence?

Use "by decreasing the amount" to describe how a reduction in something leads to a specific outcome. For instance, "You can improve fuel efficiency "by decreasing the amount" of weight in your car".

What phrases are similar to "by decreasing the amount"?

Alternatives include "by reducing the quantity", "by lowering the level", or "by minimizing the amount". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "by decreasing the amount"?

While grammatically correct, "by decreasing the amount" is best suited for non-countable nouns. For countable nouns, use "by decreasing the number". For example, you'd say "by decreasing the amount of water" but "by decreasing the number of errors".

What's the difference between "by decreasing the amount" and "by reducing"?

"By reducing" is generally more concise and direct. "By decreasing the amount" is more descriptive and can be useful when you want to emphasize the quantity being reduced. Consider using "by reducing" for a more streamlined sentence.