by invitation

USAGE SUMMARY

'by invitation' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something was done with an invitation, as opposed to on one's own initiative. For example, "She attended the conference by invitation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By invitation only.

The New York Times

After-party by invitation only.

The New York Times

It's by invitation only.

The Guardian - Tech

Attendance is limited and by invitation only.

The Economist

But do stay tuned to By invitation.

The Economist

Membership is free and by invitation only.

The New York Times - Travel

New members can join only by invitation.

The New Yorker

Membership was strictly by invitation.

The Guardian - Tech

Attendance is by invitation only.

Stanford University

Participation is by invitation only.

University of California, Berkeley

Interviews are by invitation only.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by invitation" to clearly state that attendance or participation is restricted to those who have received a specific invitation, maintaining a formal and exclusive tone.

Common error

Avoid using "by invitation" in casual settings where a simple 'RSVP' or 'Please join us' would suffice. Using it too liberally can sound pretentious or overly formal in relaxed environments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by invitation" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or noun to specify the condition under which an action is performed or access is granted. As evidenced by Ludwig, it indicates that something occurs only if an invitation has been extended.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by invitation" is a prepositional phrase that indicates exclusivity and controlled access, signifying that participation is limited to those who have received a specific invitation. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across diverse contexts, particularly in academic, news, and formal settings. It's important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in informal situations where simpler phrasing would be more appropriate. Remember, Ludwig AI's analysis suggests it is a common phrase with correct usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with an invitation

This alternative directly emphasizes the presence of an invitation as a prerequisite.

with special permission

This denotes a specific allowance granted that is not generally available.

upon request

This highlights that something is accessible or happens only when someone asks for it.

by prior arrangement

This suggests that access or participation requires a pre-existing agreement.

reserved for select guests

This phrase is mainly used in hospitality and indicates that access is limited to specific guests

on the guest list

This is specific to events and emphasizes being included among those who are permitted to attend.

with credentials

This implies a need for verification or authorization before access is granted.

limited access

This suggests that only a few are allowed entry to a certain location or event.

by application

This means one needs to formally apply and be accepted to gain access.

through membership

This indicates that access is granted by being a member of a particular group or organization.

FAQs

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

You can use "by invitation" to indicate that attendance or participation is restricted to those who have received a specific invitation. For example, "The event is "by invitation" only."

What are some alternatives to saying "by invitation"?

Alternatives include "with an invitation", "upon request", or "with special permission", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "only by invitation"?

Yes, "only by invitation" is grammatically correct and emphasizes that there are no other means of gaining access or participation.

What does "by invitation only" mean?

"By invitation only" means that attendance or participation is strictly limited to individuals who have been specifically invited. This typically implies a formal or exclusive event.