by erecting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by erecting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of constructing or building something, often in a formal or technical context. Example: "The city improved its infrastructure by erecting new bridges and roads."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

They were then asked how much they would pay to prevent the deaths by erecting nets.

The New Yorker

Some celebrate by erecting bonfires and burning effigies of Ravana, sometimes by stuffing them with fireworks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Stanishev then accused protesters of attacking the police and vandalising streets by erecting barricades.

The Economist

By erecting paywalls, commercial publishers prevent scientists from downloading research papers unless they pay substantial fees.

The Guardian

It reinforces a sense of community by erecting strong walls to comfort those on the inside.

The New York Times

Prosecutors said the tenants "created a death trap" by erecting a maze of partitions.

The New York Times

It has, however, taken control around Williams Lake by erecting gates and posting no-trespassing signs.

The New York Times

"By erecting informational barriers, Revlon kept critically important information from its board and, in turn, misled investors".

The New York Times

An attempt to manufacture cool by erecting some flatpack graffitied warehouses in the middle of the desert.

Independent

It began by erecting the bazaar, then built the casino, a hospital, a bread factory and a telecommunications building.

The New York Times

And criminal trial lawyers said the cuts are degrading due process by erecting barriers between poor clients and special services.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like barriers or walls, "by erecting" can be particularly effective to convey a sense of intentional creation.

Common error

Avoid using "by erecting" in casual or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "by building" or "by putting up" are often more appropriate and natural in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by erecting" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the means or method by which an action is carried out. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates the act of constructing or setting up something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by erecting" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe the action of constructing or building something as a means to achieve a specific outcome. As shown by Ludwig, it's commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and other formal contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for formal writing and less appropriate for casual conversation. Alternatives include "by building" or "by setting up". The phrase's role is to explain how a result is achieved through construction or establishment. The wide usage frequency and the reliable sources of examples indicate that "by erecting" is a standard and accepted way to express this concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through construction of

Focuses on the process of building or creating something, which is more descriptive than directly stating the action.

by building

A more straightforward and common way to express the idea of creating something tangible.

via the establishment of

Highlights the act of setting up or founding something, often used in more formal contexts.

by setting up

Similar to 'by building' but emphasizes the initiation or arrangement aspect.

through the creation of

Stresses the inventive or imaginative aspect of bringing something into existence.

in constructing

Focuses solely on the physical act of building or assembling.

by putting up

Indicates the act of placing something in an upright or raised position, often temporary structures.

through the installation of

Implies a more technical or specialized form of construction, focusing on fitting components together.

by raising

Emphasizes the vertical aspect of building or creating something.

in the development of

Emphasizes the gradual process of creating or expanding something over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "by erecting" to describe the act of constructing or building something, often with the intent of creating a barrier or structure for a specific purpose. For example, "The city improved its defenses by erecting walls around the perimeter."

What are some alternatives to using "by erecting"?

Alternatives include "by building", "through construction of", or "by setting up", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "by erecting" suitable for formal or informal writing?

"By erecting" is generally more suitable for formal writing due to its slightly elevated tone. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "by building" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "by erecting" and "by building"?

While both phrases describe the act of construction, "by erecting" often implies a more deliberate or formal action, particularly when referring to structures designed to create boundaries or defenses. "By building" is a more general and versatile term.