by explaining

USAGE SUMMARY

"by explaining" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to introduce a clause that explains or clarifies the statement being made. Example: By explaining the concept in simpler terms, the teacher helped the students better understand the difficult topic.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bernard rejects Doris's advances by explaining that he is gay.

The New York Times - Arts

But Cherkaoui repeatedly scuppers his own stagecraft by explaining it.

The Guardian

Trow set him straight by explaining how movies are pitched.

The New Yorker

Mr. Pink began by explaining the origins of their system.

The New Yorker

Dara Metcalfe, an instructor, coaxed them by explaining the mission.

The New York Times

Ms. Blaszczyk begins by explaining the historic importance of color.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Ratner says: "I won Tony over by explaining what I love about the character.

The New York Times

Can you start by explaining what the Zero Theorem is? "Er … Zero is 100%.

The Guardian - Film

They could start by explaining that service imports fall broadly into two types.

The New York Times

He said that "historians can come to the rescue" by explaining how and why this happens.

The New York Times

It recalls Keats's accusation that Newton destroyed the beauty of the rainbow by explaining it.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by explaining", ensure that the explanation directly and logically follows the initial statement to maintain clarity and coherence.

Common error

Avoid using "by explaining" if the subsequent information does not directly clarify or expand upon the previous statement. Ensure a clear and logical link between the initial statement and the explanation that follows.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by explaining" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a clause of means or manner. It specifies how an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig's examples show it commonly connects an action to its clarifying explanation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by explaining" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce clarifying details and enhance understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, as well as for formal and informal communication. To ensure effective usage, remember to provide a clear and logical connection between the initial statement and the subsequent explanation. Alternatives like "through clarifying" or "via detailing" can be used to add nuance, but the core function remains consistent: to illuminate and expand upon a given point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through clarifying

Emphasizes the process of making something clearer.

via detailing

Highlights the provision of specific information.

by illustrating

Focuses on providing examples to aid understanding.

by delineating

Suggests outlining or defining with precision.

in clarifying

Slightly more formal than "by explaining".

through expounding

Implies a more thorough and detailed explanation.

by elucidating

Similar to clarifying, but implies bringing light to something obscure.

by presenting details

Focuses on the act of giving specific information.

by offering insights

Suggests providing a deeper understanding.

in detailing

More formal than "by explaining" and emphasizes thoroughness.

FAQs

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

"By explaining" is used to introduce a clarifying statement. For example, "The teacher improved student understanding "by explaining" the concept in simpler terms."

What phrases are similar to "by explaining"?

Similar phrases include "through clarifying", "via detailing", or "by illustrating", which all indicate providing further information or clarification.

What is the difference between "by explaining" and "in explaining"?

While both are grammatically correct, "by explaining" is more common and generally preferred. "In explaining" is a slightly more formal alternative, whereas "by explaining" usually refers to the manner in which the action is achieved.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "by explaining"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "by explaining" is grammatically correct. For instance, "By explaining the process step by step, she made it easier to understand."