by observing this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by observing this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that a conclusion or understanding is derived from careful observation of a particular situation or phenomenon. Example: "By observing this, we can conclude that the experiment was successful in demonstrating the hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I don't mean to further indict him or exonerate him by observing this.

The New Yorker

UAV proponents claim that troops who do this kind of work are not affected by observing this combat because they are never directly in danger physically.

The Guardian - Opinion

His writings would be a literary contribution, even if there were others who may differ with the material and style of his expression … We conclude by observing this: 'Let the author be resurrected to what he is best at.

The Guardian - Books

Yet the United Nations, the EU and Britain seem content to sit idly by, observing this vulnerable country descend into the familiar chaos of its neighbours in Somalia and Eritrea.

The Guardian - Opinion

By observing this Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), cosmologists have an amazingly clear view of the very early Universe.

BBC

By observing this rule of choice consistently over time, a rational chooser presumably should maximize his or her individual expected utility, and hopefully actual utility as well.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

We can easily judge this by observing "the basis", that is the differential between the CDS price and the cash-market bond price.

The Economist

This means that we can't know the true strength of the gravitational field by observing the motions in this frame.

SEP

We confirmed this by observing the behavior of two monkeys the day after the implant was attached.

Plosone

You can do this by observing the rate of temperature increase while taking the car on a long drive.

WikiHow

You can do this by observing the use of colors, patterns, brush strokes, and the theme of the painting.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by observing this", ensure the connection between the observation and the subsequent conclusion is clear and logical. This helps maintain clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting minor observations as definitive proof. Qualify your statements by acknowledging potential alternative interpretations or limitations in your observational data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by observing this" functions as an introductory element, often serving as an adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it sets the stage for a conclusion or deduction derived from a specific observation. It clarifies that the following statement is a result of actively noticing something.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

60%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by observing this" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a conclusion based on direct observation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides various examples across diverse domains, including news, science, and wikis. Although not extremely common, it is generally appropriate for neutral to formal registers. To enhance clarity, ensure a logical connection between the observation and the derived conclusion. While effective in grounding arguments empirically, it's important not to overstate the weight of the observation in drawing conclusions. Consider alternatives such as "through this observation" or "by noting this" for similar meanings with subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through this observation

Emphasizes the act of observing as the means of gaining insight.

by noting this

Highlights the act of taking notice as the basis for understanding.

based on this observation

Positions observation as the foundation for a conclusion.

from this vantage point

Suggests a specific perspective gained through observation.

upon this inspection

Implies a careful and detailed examination.

as evidenced by this

Links observation to evidence supporting a claim.

by considering this

Shifts focus to active thought following observation.

by taking this into account

Highlights the inclusion of observed information in a broader analysis.

given this perspective

Frames observation as providing a specific viewpoint.

in light of this

Emphasizes the clarifying effect of the observation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by observing this" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "through this observation", "based on this observation", or "as evidenced by this". These alternatives provide a similar meaning but with a more elevated register.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state "by observing this" before drawing a conclusion?

No, it's not always necessary. The phrase is most effective when you want to emphasize the role of observation in reaching your conclusion. In other cases, the connection may be implied or self-evident.

What is the difference between "by observing this" and "by observing that"?

"By observing this" typically refers to a specific situation or phenomenon that is immediately present or has been recently discussed. "By observing that" is often used when referring to a more general principle or previously established fact.

When is it appropriate to use "by noting this" instead of "by observing this"?

"By noting this" is more suitable when highlighting a specific detail or fact that might otherwise be overlooked, whereas "by observing this" implies a more comprehensive act of watching or monitoring.