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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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by not causing

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by not causing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or effect that is achieved through the absence of a specific cause or action. Example: "The project was successful by not causing any disruptions to the existing workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The doctor is, instead, required to honor the value of life by not causing loss of life (cf. Pettit 1997).

Science

SEP

Some microorganisms, which can escape identification by not causing appreciable serologic responses, can localize in the udder and be isolated from milk samples.

First, not showing externalizing behaviours may be a way for daughters of PPD mothers to adjust to the family situation by not causing any extra trouble to their mother.

Intracellular bacteria that are transmitted through the eggs of their hosts are thought to be "prudent replicators" in order to ensure their transmission to future generations by not causing lethality of their host prior to reproduction.

If someone tries to insult you, don't listen to them and be the bigger person by not causing a scene and ignoring the insult.

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

By myself, not causing a problem".

News & Media

Huffington Post

Cluster headache is classified as a primary headache by definition not caused by an underlying pathology.

Cluster headache (CH) is classified as a primary headache by definition not caused by an underlying pathology.

The Fukushima accident was clearly an accident made by humans and not caused by natural phenomena as was initially thought.

The cause of death was classified either as caused by breast cancer or not caused by breast cancer.

Science

BMC Cancer

Tendon injuries were only caused when cut by sharp objects, and were not caused by jamming/crushing.

Science

Injury
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "by not causing", ensure that the intended effect is clear and that the sentence structure highlights the preventative action. For example, instead of "The system worked by not causing errors", try "The system's success stems from its ability to avoid errors".

Common error

Avoid using "by not causing" when a more direct, positive action is more appropriate. For instance, rather than saying "The medicine helped by not causing side effects", consider "The medicine helped while minimizing side effects".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.2/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by not causing" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, specifying how an action or state is achieved. Ludwig shows that the phrase commonly introduces a condition or means of achieving a desired outcome through the absence of a causing action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

News & Media

40%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by not causing" is a prepositional phrase that clarifies how a result is achieved through the avoidance of a specific action. Although Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct, its frequency is relatively rare. It is suitable for various registers, primarily appearing in science, news, and wiki contexts. Rephrasing with alternatives like "by preventing" or "by avoiding" can enhance clarity depending on the specific intent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by not causing" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives such as "by preventing", "by avoiding", or "through non-initiation" for more direct and clear communication depending on the context.

Is there a more formal way to say "by not causing"?

In formal contexts, phrases like "through the inhibition of" or "in the absence of" can provide a more sophisticated alternative to "by not causing".

What's the difference between "by not causing" and "by preventing"?

"By not causing" emphasizes the lack of initiation of an action, while "by preventing" focuses on actively stopping something from happening. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight inaction or active intervention.

When is it best to use "by not causing" in a sentence?

Use "by not causing" when you want to emphasize that a particular outcome is achieved through the avoidance of a specific action or trigger, rather than through a direct, positive action.

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Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.2/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: