by following

USAGE SUMMARY

"by following" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used as part of a larger phrase or sentence, usually followed by a set of instructions, guidelines or directions. For example, "You can improve your health by following these simple steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By following the follower, every response is the "perfect" response.

Forbes

By following the law.

The New York Times

Relaxes by following Manchester United and walking.

Independent

provided by following this link.

Harvard University

Fairness is achieved by following the rules.

The New York Times

I started by following interesting people.

The Guardian

But Japan cannot lead by following.

The Guardian - Tech

What can scientists learn by following migrations?

University of California, Berkeley

She does it by following her No. 1 rule.

The New York Times

"I don't like that cliché, you lead by following.

The New York Times - Sports

By following his father into the Irish public service.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "by following" to clearly indicate the steps needed to achieve a specific outcome. For example, "Achieve optimal results by following these steps carefully."

Common error

Avoid using "by following" without providing clear and specific instructions. Ensure the steps you refer to are easily accessible and understandable to the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by following" typically functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a gerund phrase that acts as an adverbial modifier. It describes the method or means by which something is achieved, directing the user towards a specific course of action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by following" serves as a versatile prepositional phrase to introduce instructions, guidelines, or methods. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. When using this phrase, ensure that your instructions are clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "by adhering to" or "in accordance with" can be used for nuanced emphasis. This phrase is very common, appearing in a wide array of sources, with Forbes, The New York Times and The Guardian among the most frequent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by adhering to

Focuses on strict adherence to rules or guidelines.

by complying with

Emphasizes obedience and fulfilling requirements.

in accordance with

Highlights conformity to a standard or regulation.

by observing

Stresses the act of watching and then acting according to what is seen.

by implementing

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect.

by heeding

Emphasizes paying attention to advice or warnings.

by respecting

Highlights showing consideration and deference to rules or norms.

by keeping to

Stresses sticking to an established path or plan.

by maintaining

Highlights upholding or continuing with something as before.

by carrying out

Focuses on the execution or completion of a task or instruction.

FAQs

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

You can use "by following" to introduce a set of instructions or guidelines, such as, "Improve your writing "by following" these tips" or "You can achieve your goals "by following" this plan carefully".

What can I say instead of "by following"?

Alternatives to "by following" include phrases like "by adhering to", "in accordance with", or "by complying with", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "by following"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "by following", especially when it introduces a gerund phrase that acts as an adverbial modifier. For example, "By following these rules, you can ensure a successful outcome."

What's the difference between "by following" and "according to"?

"By following" implies that you are actively adhering to a set of instructions or a specific path, whereas "according to" typically refers to citing a source or authority. For example, "By following the recipe, you'll bake a delicious cake" versus "According to the recipe, bake at 350 degrees."