by questioning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by questioning" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express an action taken to gain information. For example, "The detective solved the case by questioning witnesses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because of the subjective scope, xerostomia can only be assessed by questioning, using discriminative questions.

Clinical Oral Investigations

Start by questioning your assumptions.

Harvard Business Review

The bureau responded by questioning Halloran's credibility.

The New Yorker

Also, please stop attacking me personally by questioning my motives.

Harvard University

There he immediately began to make enemies by questioning corruption.

The New Yorker

Supplement this analysis by questioning the banker before negotiations start.

Harvard Business Review

He liked to find opportunities to advance science by questioning established ideas," Phinney said.

Princeton University

First, by questioning whether it is reasonable for you to judge your counterparts as irrational.

Harvard University

When considering how to handle difficult customers, it's important to begin by questioning your assumptions.

Harvard University

The league accuses the players union of stalling by questioning the test's validity.

The New York Times - Sports

Like companies in most industries, they have been reluctant to risk retaliation by questioning Chinese policies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by questioning", ensure that the subject performing the questioning is clear, either explicitly stated or easily inferred from the context.

Common error

Avoid using "by questioning" when a more direct verb like 'asking' or 'investigating' would be clearer. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by questioning" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It specifies the method or means by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. It indicates that the action of questioning is instrumental in achieving a particular outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by questioning" is a grammatically correct and versatile prepositional phrase commonly used to describe a method of investigation or information gathering. Ludwig AI highlights its validity. It is particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating its suitability for formal and neutral communication. While alternatives like "through inquiry" or "by inquiring" exist, "by questioning" effectively conveys the active and intentional nature of seeking answers. Use it to clearly articulate how information was discovered or a conclusion was reached, while avoiding overuse in favor of more direct verbs when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by inquiring

A more formal and polite way of saying asking questions to get information.

through probing

Implies a careful and thorough investigation, digging deep to uncover information.

through inquiry

Emphasizes the process of formal investigation and examination.

by interrogating

Focuses on the act of formally questioning someone, often in an official or legal setting.

via interrogation

Suggests a more direct and potentially formal method of questioning, often used in legal or investigative contexts.

by means of questions

A more descriptive and explanatory way to express the action of questioning.

upon questioning

Highlights the moment when questions are posed, often implying a specific context or situation.

through the use of questions

Highlights the use of questions as a tool to achieve a specific goal.

in questioning

Slightly less common, but emphasizes the act of questioning as part of a process or discussion.

by way of examination

Focuses on the formal and structured approach to understanding something through questions.

FAQs

How can I use "by questioning" in a sentence?

You can use "by questioning" to indicate a method of investigation or information gathering. For example: "The detective solved the case by questioning the witnesses."

What are some alternatives to "by questioning"?

Alternatives include "through inquiry", "by inquiring", or "via interrogation", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "by questioning" instead of simply "asking"?

"By questioning" is more appropriate when you want to emphasize the systematic or investigative nature of the inquiry, rather than a simple request for information. Use "asking" when the context is informal.

Is there a difference in formality between "by questioning" and "through questioning"?

Both "by questioning" and "through questioning" are relatively formal. "Through questioning" might slightly emphasize the process aspect, while "by questioning" highlights the action itself. The difference is minimal.