by examining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by examining" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of analyzing or investigating something in detail. Example: "By examining the data closely, we can identify trends and make informed decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Start by examining infant-feeding practices.

Stanford University

Any argument can be settled by examining the negative.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So start by examining the patient, from the ground up.

The New York Times

They could start by examining Radiohead's experiment with "In Rainbows".

The New York Times

How to understand something so complex by examining it piecemeal?

The New York Times - Science

They get control of their future by examining their past.

Harvard Business Review

We can only understand it by examining Washington.

The New York Times - Books

He concludes by examining these seemingly paradoxical functions.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We conclude by examining ionospheric effects on GPS at midlatitudes.

Advances in Space Research

We'll start by examining the item in question.

The New York Times

He might usefully begin by examining his own record.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by examining", clearly state what is being examined and the purpose of the examination for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "by examining" in excessively passive constructions. Instead of "Results were obtained by examining the data", prefer "We obtained results by examining the data" for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by examining" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, adverb, or adjective. It introduces the means or method through which an action is performed or a conclusion is reached. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by examining" is a prepositional phrase used to introduce a method of analysis or investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and common occurrence in various contexts, particularly within scientific, news media, and formal business domains. Its grammatical function involves modifying verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, serving the communicative purpose of specifying how something is being investigated or analyzed. While generally neutral to formal in tone, its register may fluctuate based on the specific context. Understanding its proper usage and potential alternatives enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through analysis of

Focuses on the process of analysis rather than the act of examining.

upon inspection of

Emphasizes a more visual and direct form of examination.

via investigation into

Highlights a more in-depth and systematic inquiry.

after reviewing

Implies a more comprehensive assessment of available information.

in studying

Focuses on a learning-oriented approach to examination.

by scrutinizing

Suggests a very careful and critical form of examination.

with a view to

Highlights the purpose or goal of the examination.

on closer inspection

Emphasizes a detailed and meticulous examination process.

assessing through

Highlights the evaluation aspect of the examining process.

by way of analysis

Positions analysis as the method by which something is examined.

FAQs

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

Use "by examining" to indicate the method of investigation or analysis. For example: "We can understand the problem better "by examining the data"".

What are some alternatives to "by examining"?

You can use alternatives like "through analysis", "upon inspection", or "via investigation" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. Each offers a slightly different emphasis on the examination process.

Is "by examining" formal or informal?

"By examining" is generally considered suitable for formal and academic writing, but can also be used in news or more neutral contexts. Its formality depends on the surrounding language and the specific context.

What's the difference between "by examining" and "by investigating"?

While similar, "by investigating" often implies a more thorough and potentially complex inquiry compared to "by examining", which can refer to a more straightforward analysis.