by drawing lots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by drawing lots" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a method of making a decision or selecting someone randomly, often in a fair manner. Example: "To determine who would lead the project, the team decided to select the leader by drawing lots."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Broadcasters and the parties settled the timing of the debates by drawing lots.

Independent

Previously, it was the rule to fill high official positions by drawing lots.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's all done by drawing lots," said Benito Portocarrero, spokesman for the electoral authority.

The New York Times

In the old days, tiebreaking was managed in chaotic ways, often by drawing lots.

The New York Times

Designating the various tasks can be done by drawing lots, by simply asking or by assigning.

The New York Times

The two cities won the agencies after tie breaks that saw the winner selected by drawing lots from a large goldfish-style bowl.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Sixty eligible and healthy participants out of 246 children were allocated equally to either of the two groups, the control and probiotic groups, using a simple randomization procedure by means of drawing lots.

BMC Oral Health

Ritually chosen by a blindfolded boy drawing lots from among three candidates elected by church bodies, in November 1971 Gayed was enthroned as His Holiness Shenouda III, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa.

The Guardian

The system for drawing lots works by placing a sheet of paper with a Bible verse into the pages of a songbook.

WikiHow

Randomisation involved drawing lots.

BMC Geriatrics

If both of those matches end in draws with the same scoreline, then positions will be decided by drawing of lots.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a fair and unbiased method of selection, "by drawing lots" is a clear and effective choice. Use it to convey impartiality and randomness in decision-making processes.

Common error

Avoid using "by drawing lots" when the selection process is not truly random or fair. Ensure the method aligns with the intended meaning of impartiality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by drawing lots" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb, adverb, or noun, indicating the method by which a decision or selection is made. It describes a process of random selection, as shown by Ludwig, often to ensure fairness or impartiality.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by drawing lots" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a method of random selection, often to ensure fairness and impartiality. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including science, news & media and encyclopedias. While it's generally neutral in register, it appears more frequently in formal settings. Alternatives include "by random selection" and "through a lottery system". When using this phrase, ensure that the selection process is truly random and unbiased.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by random selection

Emphasizes the randomness of the selection process without specifying the method.

through a lottery system

Specifically refers to a lottery-based method, implying a formal drawing.

by chance

A more general term indicating that the outcome is determined by luck or fate.

at random

Similar to "by chance" but emphasizes the lack of a specific selection process.

through a raffle

Implies a selection process involving tickets and prizes, often used in fundraising.

by flipping a coin

A simple method of random selection, suitable for binary choices.

by picking names from a hat

A more informal method of random selection, implying a personal touch.

through a blind draw

Highlights the impartiality of the selection process.

by a roll of the dice

Uses the imagery of dice to suggest a random, unpredictable outcome.

by using a random number generator

Suggests a technological or statistical method of random selection.

FAQs

How to use "by drawing lots" in a sentence?

You can use "by drawing lots" to describe a method of random selection. For example, "The winner was chosen "by drawing lots" from a pool of qualified candidates."

What can I say instead of "by drawing lots"?

You can use alternatives like "by random selection", "through a lottery system", or "at random depending on the context".

Is "by drawing lots" a formal or informal expression?

"By drawing lots" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in formal or neutral settings when describing a decision-making process.

What is the origin of the phrase "by drawing lots"?

The phrase "by drawing lots" refers to an ancient method of making decisions or selecting individuals randomly, often used to ensure fairness or impartiality.