by its hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by its hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is done or created by a specific entity or person, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "The manuscript was completed by its hand, showcasing the author's unique style and voice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The current was strong, I grabbed the body by its hand, and the arm came off.

The New Yorker

"The idea is to take a case by its hand, from the beginning to the verdict and beyond electronically," Mr. Kalian said.

The New York Times

We also know the film will see her wield the blade Soultaker which, as you guessed, captures the souls of those who fall by its hand and allows its possessor to communicate with them.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A Japanese company managed to corner the entire world copper market in the mid-1990's (though it lost it all by overplaying its hand).

The New York Times

Shallow where it doesn't need to be, frustrating when it should be formidable, "Hanna" wastes a great opportunity by overplaying its hand.

Los Angeles Times

By playing its hand close Boeing just might launch an all-new plane five years or so before that.

The Economist

It extends its hand and, by way of identification, promisingly declares, "Peter Kane Dufault".

The New Yorker

It makes me want to shake the legal profession by its giant hand.

The Guardian - Opinion

No State can be heard to complain about damage inflicted by its own hand.

Cornell University

"It is no answer, of course, to say that Congress surrendered its authority by its own hand," he wrote.

The New York Times

And so capitalism is about to seize defeat from the jaws of victory all by its own hand.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by its hand" in formal writing or when emphasizing the direct agency of an entity in bringing about a result. It adds a touch of formality and can be useful in legal or official contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "by its hand" in everyday conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "through its actions" or "because of it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by its hand" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the means or agency by which something is accomplished. It specifies that the action is performed directly or caused by the subject.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by its hand" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase that denotes agency or direct involvement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, particularly in formal or literary contexts, although it's relatively rare in everyday language. It appears most frequently in news and media, as well as scientific publications. While appropriate in certain settings, it's crucial to consider its formality and avoid overuse in casual communication, where simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through its actions

Focuses on the actions taken by something.

via its agency

Emphasizes the role of an intermediary or agent.

by its own doing

Highlights the self-inflicted nature of an action or result.

through its influence

Focuses on the effect exerted by something.

by means of its power

Highlights the resources or authority employed.

as a result of its efforts

Emphasizes the work or exertion involved.

owing to its intervention

Highlights the act of getting involved in something.

courtesy of its work

Indicates that something is provided by the work of another.

attributed to its capability

Highlights the ability or capacity to do something.

executed through its control

Emphasizes the management or command exercised.

FAQs

How can I use "by its hand" in a sentence?

Use "by its hand" to emphasize that an action was directly caused or performed by a specific entity. For example, "The company's success was achieved by its hand, demonstrating its strategic vision".

What are some alternatives to "by its hand"?

You can use alternatives like "through its actions", "via its agency", or "by its own doing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "by its hand" and "through its influence"?

"By its hand" implies direct action or creation, whereas "through its influence" suggests a more indirect effect or persuasion.

Is "by its hand" formal or informal?

"By its hand" is considered a more formal expression, suitable for professional writing, legal documents, or literary contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives are generally preferred.