Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
by decreasing the diameter
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "by decreasing the diameter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing methods or processes that involve reducing the size of a circular object or opening. Example: "The efficiency of the engine can be improved by decreasing the diameter of the exhaust pipe."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
These highly aligned CNT arrays were chemically modified by treating with oxygen plasma and structurally modified by decreasing the diameter of individual carbon nanotubes.
Science
As expected, by decreasing the diameter of the hole the amount of insertion torque increased.
Science
And by decreasing the diameter, the ratio of surface area to volume increased, which can favor a high level of surface and sub-surface oxygen vacancies [46].
Science
The properties of CFs can be also improved by decreasing the diameter of the fibers or increasing the packing density of CNTs in the fiber (Fig. 5e, f) [23, 24].
Science
The diffusional distance was shortened by decreasing the diameter of the extended loop, which caused a faster mass transfer during the transesterification and consequently resulted in a higher FAME yield.
Science
In eutrophic remodeling, neurohumoral activity as affected by PM activation of, for example, pulmonary reflexes leads to vasoconstriction and increased BP, but wall stress remains normal by decreasing the diameter of the vessel and increasing the wall thickness (Heagerty et al. 2010; Mulvany 2002).
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
By further decreasing the diameter of the fibers to ∼83 and ∼20 nm, the electrochemical performance was further increased (Fig. 2a,b).
Science & Research
By further decreasing the diameter to ∼20 nm, the ultrafine PBSCF-III nanofibers were solid with no observable pores, and some abutting nanofibers were sintered together (Fig. 1g).
Science & Research
Restriction of HDS activity due to diffusion effects can be alleviated by decreasing the pellet diameter and choosing the optimum mesopore and macropore diameters and volumes.
Science
The efficiency of the dechlorination was lowered by decreasing the tube diameter from 200 to 100 nm.
Science
A transition phenomenon from laminar to turbulent flow was observed by decreasing the inlet diameter while maintaining a similar mass flow rate.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "by decreasing the diameter", ensure the context clearly indicates what object or opening's diameter is being reduced. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject.
Common error
Avoid using "by decreasing the diameter" without clearly stating what object's diameter is being reduced. For instance, instead of "Efficiency improved by decreasing the diameter", specify "Efficiency improved by decreasing the diameter of the nozzle."
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "by decreasing the diameter" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It specifies how something is achieved or by what means an effect is produced. As Ludwig AI suggests, this construction is grammatically sound and commonly used.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "by decreasing the diameter" is a grammatically correct and useful construction, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. It serves to explain a method or action by which a particular outcome is achieved. As Ludwig AI correctly indicates, the phrase is appropriate for formal and scientific registers. Usage of "by decreasing the diameter" suggests a deliberate manipulation of physical dimensions for a specific purpose. When employing this phrase, clarity is paramount; ensure the subject whose diameter is being reduced is explicitly stated. Alternatives like "through diameter reduction" or "with a smaller diameter" can offer stylistic variation. The phrase's relative infrequency suggests a niche usage within technical domains.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
through diameter reduction
Emphasizes the process of reducing the diameter.
via a decrease in diameter
Highlights the means by which the diameter is lessened.
with smaller diameter
Focuses on the resultant state of having a reduced diameter.
by reducing the dimension
Uses a broader term ('dimension') to encompass size reduction, not exclusively diameter.
by diminishing the bore
Specifically refers to reducing the internal diameter (bore).
by lessening the width
Uses 'width' as a more general term for diameter.
by constricting the aperture
Implies reducing the size of an opening or hole.
through narrowing the gauge
Suggests decreasing the thickness or measure of something.
by scaling down the size
A more general way to refer to reducing the size of something.
with a reduction in caliber
Similar to diameter but may imply a higher degree of precision or standardization.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "by decreasing the diameter"?
Alternatives include "through diameter reduction", "via a decrease in diameter", or simply "with smaller diameter", depending on the context.
Is "by decreasing the diameter" grammatically correct?
Yes, "by decreasing the diameter" is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in scientific and technical writing. Ludwig AI confirms this.
What does "by decreasing the diameter" mean?
It means reducing the size of a circular object or opening, typically to achieve a specific effect or improve a particular outcome.
In what contexts is "by decreasing the diameter" typically used?
This phrase is frequently used in scientific, engineering, and technical contexts when discussing modifications to physical objects or systems. For example, it may describe changes made to improve efficiency, reduce resistance, or alter performance characteristics.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested