by dropping

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by dropping" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing how someone is performing a task or doing something. For example, "The basketball player made the shot by dropping the ball into the hoop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By dropping out of the work force.

The New York Times

BHP responded by dropping its bid.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Test the oil by dropping in a little batter.

Independent

The British retaliated by dropping fake wooden bombs.

The Guardian - Arts

But you can shatter a watermelon by dropping it.

The Washington Post

Overweight patients can reduce strain by dropping pounds.

The New York Times - Health

What is the prowess demonstrated by dropping 500-pound bombs?

The New York Times

Let us know by dropping an email to [email protected].

The Guardian

Lottery stunt used by dropping names in a vase.

The New Yorker

This may be achieved either by dropping plies or by steering the fibres.

Composite Structures

In combinatorial auctions using VCG, a seller can sometimes increase revenue by dropping bidders.

Artificial Intelligence

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by dropping", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being dropped and the resulting effect. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "by dropping" without specifying what is being dropped. For example, instead of "Performance improved by dropping", specify "Performance improved by dropping unnecessary features."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by dropping" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb, indicating the method or means by which an action is performed. Ludwig shows its versatility in describing how something is achieved through the act of removing or omitting something else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by dropping" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe a method or action achieved through the removal or omission of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to specify what is being dropped. Common errors involve vague references, so always provide a clear context. Alternatives like "through removing" or "by excluding" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "by dropping" to enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

via removing

Focuses on the action of taking something away as a method.

through omitting

Focuses on the action of leaving something out as a method, highlighting the deliberate removal.

via discarding

Emphasizes the act of getting rid of something as a means to achieve a result.

by excluding

Highlights the process of preventing something from being included.

in eliminating

Stresses the complete removal of something to achieve a specific outcome.

by foregoing

Emphasizes the act of voluntarily giving up something.

through relinquishing

Implies a formal or deliberate act of giving something up.

by lessening

Indicates a reduction in quantity or intensity as a means to an end.

in curtailing

Emphasizes the action of reducing or restricting something.

by diminishing

Focuses on the gradual reduction of something as a method.

FAQs

How can I use "by dropping" in a sentence?

You can use "by dropping" to describe a method or action. For example, "The company increased profits "by dropping prices"" or "The team improved their efficiency "by dropping unnecessary meetings"".

What are some alternatives to "by dropping"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "through removing", "via discarding", or "by excluding", depending on the specific context.

Is it always clear what "by dropping" refers to?

To ensure clarity, always specify what is being dropped. Avoid vague statements like "The process was improved by dropping"; instead, say, "The process was improved "by dropping a step"".

Which is better, "by dropping" or "by omitting"?

Both "by dropping" and "by omitting" are valid, but "by dropping" often implies a more deliberate or forceful removal, while "by omitting" suggests a more passive exclusion. Choose the one that best fits the intended meaning.