by describing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'by describing' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are explaining the process of conveying information about someone or something. For example: "The author conveyed his message about the wonders of nature by describing the beauty of its elements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sehgal began by describing the pieces.

The New Yorker

By describing her visions, she risks excommunication.

The New York Times

Can't they change it by describing it?

The Economist

Could you start by describing your research?

Princeton University

We begin by describing these two logics.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The inquiry clerk began by describing them.

The Guardian

Start by describing life as the audience knows it.

Harvard Business Review

We begin by describing the AA algorithm.

Journal of Computational Physics

Dr. Schuchat replied by describing problems that vaccine makers face.

The New York Times - Health

I shall begin by describing that underlying case law.

Cornell University

Let me begin by describing the prevailing orthodoxy.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by describing", ensure that the description itself is vivid and engaging, providing a clear understanding of the subject matter.

Common error

Avoid constructing sentences where the actor is obscured. For example, instead of "The scene was enhanced by describing the sunset", use "The author enhanced the scene by describing the sunset" to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by describing" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb. It specifies the means or method through which an action is performed. Ludwig examples show its prevalent use in explaining how authors, speakers, or researchers convey information or achieve a specific effect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

30%

Science

28%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by describing" is a grammatically sound and widely used prepositional phrase that serves to specify the means through which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, especially in news, academia, and scientific writing. To use the phrase effectively, ensure your descriptions are vivid and clear, and avoid passive voice constructions. Alternatives such as "through description" and "via depiction" offer similar nuances. With these guidelines, you can confidently incorporate "by describing" into your writing to enhance clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through description

Focuses on the method of using description as a means or channel.

via depiction

Highlights the act of representing visually or verbally.

by means of description

Emphasizes the instrumental role of description.

in describing

A shorter variation, focusing on the action of describing.

by detailing

Highlights the act of providing specifics and thorough information.

through portraying

Stresses the act of presenting a likeness or representation.

by illustrating

Focuses on clarifying or explaining through examples.

by explicating

Emphasizes a detailed and thorough explanation.

using descriptive language

Highlights the use of language specifically intended to describe.

with a description of

Introduces that a description will follow.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "by describing" in a sentence?

Use "by describing" to illustrate how something is clarified or enhanced through detailed explanations. For instance, "The author builds suspense "by describing" the eerie atmosphere of the old mansion".

What are some alternatives to "by describing"?

You can use alternatives like "through description", "via depiction", or "by detailing" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "By describing"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "By describing", especially when emphasizing the method or process. For example, "By describing the character's inner thoughts, the author creates a deep connection with the reader".

How does "by describing" differ from "in describing"?

"By describing" emphasizes the method or means through which something is achieved, while "in describing" focuses on the act of describing as a part of a larger action or context. The former is instrumental, while the latter is locative.