by experiment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by experiment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the method of obtaining knowledge or results through experimentation or practical testing. Example: "The theory was validated by experiment, demonstrating its accuracy in real-world applications."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's something you find out by experiment.

Yale University

But, incrementally, Travia case by Travia case, chemical by experiment by experiment, a partnership formed.

The Guardian

Newton himself tested his assumptions by experiment and observation.

Britannica

These findings were verified by experiment.

Polymer

Each curve must be determined by experiment.

Incompressible Flow Turbomachines Design, Selection, Applications, and Theory

The evaluations were done by experiment.

Journal of Manufacturing Systems

Ultimately, quantum gravity must be tested by experiment.

Cornell University

Calculation results are proved by experiment.

Procedia Engineering

Results are almost verified by experiment.

Viral Proteases and Their Inhibitors

The performance is also investigated by experiment.

Physics Procedia

The results were verified by experiment.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by experiment" when you want to emphasize that a conclusion or result was obtained through direct experimentation, rather than theory or calculation. This highlights the empirical basis of the finding.

Common error

Avoid consistently phrasing sentences using passive voice with "by experiment". Instead of "The results were verified by experiment", consider active constructions like "Experiments verified the results" for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by experiment" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the method or means by which something is determined or validated. Ludwig shows examples where it specifies how findings are verified or how conclusions are reached.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by experiment" functions as a powerful adverbial phrase emphasizing the empirical validation of a statement. Its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse fields, confirmed by Ludwig, underscores its importance in scientific discourse, news reporting, and academic writing. This phrase indicates a reliance on practical testing rather than theoretical postulation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and showcases its frequent appearance in science, news, and academia. The phrase conveys a sense of authoritative and verifiable results. To enhance your writing, remember to actively voice sentences to avoid passive constructions while highlighting empirical findings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experimentally

Focuses solely on the method of experimentation, omitting the preposition.

through experimentation

Replaces "by" with "through", emphasizing the process.

via experimentation

Substitutes "by" with "via", indicating a means or channel.

empirically

Highlights the reliance on observation and experience rather than theory.

through empirical methods

Specifies the use of empirical approaches.

based on experimental data

Emphasizes the foundation of conclusions on data derived from experiments.

using experimental techniques

Focuses on the tools and procedures employed in the experimental process.

in practice

Highlights real-world application and testing.

through hands-on testing

Emphasizes the active and direct nature of the testing process.

with practical testing

Indicates testing that is focused on real-world results and applications.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by experiment" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "through experimentation" or "via experimentation" to maintain a sophisticated tone. You might also use "empirically" to emphasize the reliance on observation and experience.

What does it mean to validate something "by experiment"?

To validate something "by experiment" means to confirm its accuracy or correctness through practical testing and observation. It implies that the claim or theory has been supported by empirical evidence obtained through experiments.

Is it always necessary to specify "by experiment"?

No, it's not always necessary. If the context already makes it clear that results were obtained experimentally, specifying "by experiment" may be redundant. However, it's useful when you want to emphasize the empirical nature of the findings or contrast them with theoretical predictions.

What's the difference between "by experiment" and "in theory"?

"By experiment" refers to knowledge gained through practical testing, while "in theory" refers to knowledge based on abstract reasoning or models. They represent contrasting approaches to understanding and validating ideas; one emphasizes empirical evidence, and the other emphasizes logical deduction.