by extension

USAGE SUMMARY

"by extension" is a correct phrase that is often used in written English.
It is usually used to mean "by implication" or "by inference," and it is generally used when making a generalization or making a connection between two ideas. For example: "Since people are increasingly relying on technology, by extension, our society is becoming increasingly dependent on it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

By extension, she is beautiful too.

Independent

And, by extension, the best?

The Guardian - Sport

Neither, by extension, is Apple.

The New York Times - Tech

It is unpopular and, by extension, weak.

The New York Times

By extension mortality rates will increase.

The Guardian - Opinion

And nor, by extension, is Lawson.

The Guardian - Film

The house, by extension, must be empty.

The Guardian

By extension, it's a critique of them.

The New York Times - Tech

By extension, the Pacers now had his heart.

The New York Times - Sports

Congress by extension should be doing the same".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But his activism-by-extension to LGBT sensibilities isn't arbitrary.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by extension" to clearly signal that you are drawing a logical connection or making an inference from a previously stated fact or idea.

Common error

Avoid using "by extension" when there is no clear or logical connection between the ideas being linked. Ensure the relationship is evident and that the extension is a reasonable inference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by extension" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking two clauses or sentences to indicate a logical relationship. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to make generalizations or connections. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its role in drawing inferences and expanding upon initial statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by extension" is a commonly used phrase that indicates a logical consequence or inference. As Ludwig AI states, it is used to make generalizations or connections between two ideas. It functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase and is suitable for neutral to slightly formal contexts, particularly in news and media, academia, and science. Alternatives include "by implication" and "consequently". To use it effectively, ensure a clear logical connection between the ideas being linked. This phrase is useful for building upon existing information, explaining relationships, and drawing conclusions, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by implication

Focuses on the indirect suggestion rather than a direct expansion.

by inference

Highlights the act of drawing a conclusion from evidence or reasoning.

consequently

Emphasizes the result or effect of something.

therefore

Indicates a logical conclusion based on preceding statements.

as a result

Highlights the outcome or consequence of a previous action or event.

in turn

Suggests a sequence of events where one thing leads to another.

logically

Focuses on the inherent logical connection between ideas.

it follows that

Explicitly states that a conclusion is a necessary consequence.

accordingly

Indicates that an action or decision is made in response to something.

ipso facto

Emphasizes that something is true by its very nature or definition.

FAQs

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

Use "by extension" to indicate that something else is also true or applicable because of a previous statement. For example, "If the company's profits are increasing, then by extension, the employees may receive bonuses."

What's an alternative to using "by extension"?

You can use alternatives like "by implication", "consequently", or "therefore" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it formal or informal to use "by extension"?

"By extension" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase, suitable for both academic and professional writing. It maintains clarity and avoids overly casual language.

What does "by extension" mean?

"By extension" means that something is true or applicable because of its connection to something else that is already known or stated. It implies a logical consequence or inference.