by otherwise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by otherwise" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not commonly used and may confuse readers due to its ambiguity. Example: "You can achieve your goals by otherwise changing your approach."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The column described a stereotyping experienced by otherwise privileged people.

The New York Times

These include modest government subsidies and newspaper publishing licences that are hard to come by otherwise.

The Economist

The other day, he even endured jeers at a conservative gathering in Washington, by otherwise well-behaved exemplars of conservatism.

The New York Times

On a number of occasions, he has overridden hiring and tenure decisions made by otherwise supportive departments.

The New Yorker

Some guests appeared happy to broadcast their inner comedians, leaving the debate punctuated by otherwise random explosions of laughter.

The Economist

Sex therapists say a number of things could be contributing to the use of the drugs by otherwise healthy young men.

The New York Times - Style

This weekend a new law came into force that makes squatting – the occupation of empty buildings by otherwise homeless people – a criminal offence.

The Guardian - Music

Then there are poems by otherwise rhyming poets that don't rhyme but feel like they do, such as "The Second Coming" and "Ulysses".

The New Yorker

When seen through a microscope, dust motes in liquids jitter about, because they are repeatedly struck by otherwise invisible atoms and molecules.

The New York Times

"Butley" (in 1971), starring Alan Bates and directed by Mr. Pinter, became his breakthrough, and that was followed by "Otherwise Engaged," again with Bates.

The New York Times

In this production, dulled by otherwise humdrum casting, Flórez winds up playing second fiddle to Polish soprano Aleksandra Kurzak in the title role.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "by otherwise" in your writing. It is often grammatically incorrect and can confuse your readers. Consider using alternatives like "in other respects" or "through different means" to convey your intended meaning more clearly.

Common error

A frequent mistake is assuming "by otherwise" functions as a standard prepositional phrase. Instead, clarify your sentence by using more precise language to express the intended relationship or condition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by otherwise" is an adverbial phrase, which, despite its common occurrence, Ludwig AI marks as grammatically incorrect. Typically, an adverbial phrase modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb, providing additional information about how, when, where, or why something happens.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by otherwise" appears with notable frequency across various sources, but Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. Predominantly found in news and scientific contexts, its intended function is often to indicate an alternative means or condition. Despite its relatively common occurrence, writers should exercise caution and opt for clearer, grammatically sound alternatives such as "in other respects" or "through different means". The authoritative sources show a wide range of uses, but the grammatical ambiguity suggests a need for careful consideration in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by alternate means

This alternative highlights different methods to achieve the same goal.

using a different approach

This alternative shifts the focus to the methodology used.

in other respects

Focuses on a broader comparison across multiple aspects, not just a single alternative action.

employing alternative strategies

This option emphasizes the planned methods or tactics used.

in different situations

Similar to 'under different circumstances' but emphasizes the setting more than the general conditions.

under different circumstances

Highlights the impact of varying conditions, shifting the focus from a direct alternative.

using alternative methods

Specifies a change in methodology rather than a general alternative.

in contrasting scenarios

This alternative emphasizes the different conditions under which something occurs.

through different means

Emphasizes the tools or resources used, changing the focus from the alternative itself.

via alternate routes

Specifically refers to paths or courses of action, unlike the general alternative.

FAQs

What does "by otherwise" mean?

The phrase "by otherwise" is not a standard or grammatically correct construction in English. Its intended meaning is often unclear and depends heavily on the context. In most cases, alternative phrasing would be more appropriate.

What can I use instead of "by otherwise"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "in other respects", "through different means", or "under different circumstances" to convey your intended meaning more clearly.

Is "by otherwise" grammatically correct?

No, "by otherwise" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. It's not a recognized idiomatic expression and can lead to confusion. It is recommended to use alternative phrasing.

How can I rephrase a sentence that uses "by otherwise"?

Identify the intended relationship or condition being expressed. Then, choose a more precise and grammatically correct phrase that accurately reflects that relationship. For example, instead of "The problem was solved by otherwise using a different approach", try "The problem was solved "by using a different approach"".