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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
by question
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "by question" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is unclear when or how to use it, as it lacks context and does not form a standard expression. Example: "Please respond by question" does not make sense as it stands.
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
49 human-written examples
That will be followed by Question Time.
News & Media
Seizing on the unusual opportunity to question the justices, senators set the agenda question by question.
News & Media
The Obama administration's claim is more complicated, and comes accompanied by question marks.
News & Media
By question time, Labor was fired up, pursing the Coalition over the cost.
News & Media
Question by question, Mr. Saracco amassed contradictions and apparant gaps in Mr. Davis's memory.
News & Media
But Mr. Tetzlaff appeared to be overthinking the lyrical passages, with phrases punctuated by question marks and constant rhetorical adjustments.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
11 human-written examples
In a question-by-question analysis for questions 1-4, patients who improved according to HURT had higher PSS scores (more satisfied) (Table 3).
Questionnaire accuracy was assessed on a question-by-question basis.
They identified emergent themes on a question-by-question basis.
Science
Analysis of the cognitive debriefing portion of the interviews was on a question-by-question basis.
Each transcript was then summarized on a question-by-question basis.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When you intend to say "on a question-by-question basis", prefer the explicit and clearer phrase. It is more readily understood and less prone to misinterpretation.
Common error
Avoid using "by question" when you mean "regarding the question" or "concerning the question". Using the phrase incorrectly often leads to confusion, as it's grammatically unusual and can obscure your intended meaning. Instead, opt for clearer alternatives that directly express the relationship to the question.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "by question" functions as a prepositional phrase, often intended to modify a verb or noun, indicating the method or scope of an action or assessment. However, as noted by Ludwig AI, its usage is often grammatically awkward and requires careful consideration of context.
Frequent in
Science
55%
News & Media
35%
Wiki
5%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Encyclopedias
1%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "by question" appears in various contexts, including science and news media, Ludwig AI flags it as often grammatically incorrect and lacking clear meaning. Its intended purpose is usually to specify a method or scope related to questioning, but it's often clearer to use alternatives like "on a question-by-question basis" or "regarding the question". Therefore, while the phrase is somewhat common, especially in certain domains, careful consideration and potential rephrasing are recommended for improved clarity and grammatical correctness.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
on a question-by-question basis
Replaces "by question" with an expanded phrase that emphasizes a detailed, itemized approach.
regarding the question
Replaces "by question" with a more standard prepositional phrase indicating the topic or subject under consideration.
concerning the question
Indicates a direct relevance to the question, similar to "regarding" but potentially more formal.
related to the question
Highlights the connection or association with a specific question, providing a broader scope.
per question
Emphasizes a rate or cost associated with each question, offering a quantitative perspective.
in relation to the question
Similar to "related to the question" but with a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing the connection.
with respect to the question
Introduces a specific viewpoint or aspect of the question being addressed, offering a focused perspective.
for each question
Highlights individual consideration of every question, emphasizing thoroughness or individual attention.
during questioning
Focuses on the process of asking questions, particularly in an interrogative context.
through inquiry
Highlights the method of investigation using questions, emphasizing the active pursuit of information.
FAQs
How can I use "by question" correctly in a sentence?
While the phrase "by question" is often considered grammatically incorrect, it can be used in specific contexts where it implies a method or manner related to questioning. However, it's often clearer to use alternatives like "on a question-by-question basis" or "regarding the question".
What's a better way to say "assessed by question"?
Instead of "assessed by question", consider using phrases like "assessed "on a question-by-question basis"", "assessed according to the question", or "evaluated "in relation to the question"" for improved clarity.
Is it correct to say "analyzed by question"?
While understandable, "analyzed by question" isn't ideal. More precise options include "analyzed "for each question"", "analyzed question by question", or "analyzed "with respect to the question"", which specify the analytical approach more clearly.
What are some alternatives to "determined by question"?
For "determined by question", clearer alternatives include "determined according to the question", "determined based on the question", or "determined "concerning the question"". These options provide a more grammatically sound and easily understood construction.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested