by nagging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by nagging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method of persuasion or influence that involves persistent requests or complaints. Example: "She managed to get her way by nagging her parents until they finally agreed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Simple if you are untroubled by nagging empathy.

The Washington Post

Cabrera, hobbled to virtual powerlessness by nagging injuries, then crushed a belt-high, 94-m.p.h.

The New York Times - Sports

(It might have come sooner, had the government not challenged the RBI's independence by nagging it to cut).

The Economist

After all, you don't get a sea lion to balance a ball on the end of its nose by nagging.

The New York Times

Piqued, too, by nagging anxiety - in the days before incessant testing and pushy parents - about failing the 11-plus.

The Guardian - Opinion

David Justice is bothered by nagging leg problems, and he was forced to finish the game in left field Saturday.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

One possible explanation of the sequence of events in our model would be the primary suppression of collagen III by nAG.

BioMed Research International

People who meet with the president frequently leave buoyed, an optimism punctured by a nagging question mere hours later: What just happened?

The Washington Post

Smart gadgets are the natural allies of such schemes: they document the results and can even help achieve them – by constantly nagging us to do what's expected.

The Guardian - Tech

Yet any amusement at the chop and change of his interests must be tempered by the nagging fact of his competence.

The New Yorker

Like many people, Tom followed his life path but paid a heavy price by carrying nagging regrets he cannot shake.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "by nagging". While it describes a method of influence, it often carries a negative implication of being annoying or irritating. Use it judiciously, especially in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by nagging" in formal or professional contexts where a more neutral or positive tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "through consistent follow-up" or "with persistent communication" to maintain a professional demeanor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by nagging" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the means or method by which an action is performed. It specifies how something is achieved, often implying a persistent and potentially irritating manner. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it modifies verbs to show the way something is done.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by nagging" is a phrase used to describe achieving something through persistent, often irritating, requests or complaints. Ludwig AI indicates that while grammatically correct, it carries negative connotations and might be unsuitable for formal contexts. As shown in the few examples provided by Ludwig, it's more commonly found in news articles and general discussions. Consider alternatives like "through persistent reminders" or "with consistent follow-up" for a more professional tone. Being mindful of the negative implications ensures more effective and respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through persistent pestering

Focuses on the annoying and repetitive nature of the action.

by constant badgering

Implies a more aggressive and relentless form of persuasion.

via relentless prodding

Highlights continuous encouragement or urging, which can be perceived as annoying.

with ceaseless prompting

Emphasizes the continuous need for reminders or cues.

through repeated reminders

Underscores the repetitive nature of the communication.

by harping on it

Highlights the repetitive and often irritating nature of the communication.

by being a squeaky wheel

This idiom refers to getting attention and action by complaining or making oneself heard.

by wearing someone down

Focuses on the gradual erosion of resistance through persistence.

through persistent demands

Emphasizes the forceful and insistent nature of the requests.

by importuning

This is a more formal and less common word for persistently asking someone to do something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by nagging" to sound more positive?

Consider using phrases like "through gentle reminders", "with consistent follow-up", or "by providing regular support" to convey a more supportive and less irritating approach.

Is "by nagging" considered impolite?

Yes, "by nagging" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the method of influence is annoying or bothersome. It's generally advisable to use more tactful language, depending on the audience and the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "by nagging"?

The phrase "by nagging" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the persistent and potentially irritating nature of the requests or reminders. However, be mindful of the negative implications and consider whether a more neutral term would be more suitable.

What's the difference between "by nagging" and "through persistent reminders"?

"By nagging" typically implies a more bothersome and less respectful form of persuasion, while "through persistent reminders" suggests a more organized and less irritating approach. The latter is generally perceived as more professional and considerate.