by recourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by recourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate a method of seeking help or remedy through a particular means or source. Example: "The plaintiff sought compensation by recourse to the court system."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

About half are able to support their families only by recourse to public assistance.

The New York Times

In Schelling's view, knowledge could not be obtained by recourse to logic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Those campaigns cannot be understood by recourse to historical shorthand," Mr. Middleton wrote.

The New York Times

In his commentary on the Guide, Narboni often interprets the earlier philosopher's opinions by recourse to Averroës' views.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Heineman captured this episode by recourse to the two things that propel much good journalism: luck and hunch.

The Guardian - Film

The only people disenfranchised by recourse to I.E. are those native speakers of English who do not have another idiom for side-channel consultation.

The New Yorker

However, she added: "Permanent-status issues can be resolved only through negotiations between the parties – and not by recourse to the security council.

The Guardian - Opinion

By the same token, while we can draw inspiration from the classical texts and teachings of neighborly morality, we cannot expect that dilemmas of professional life will be settled by recourse to these sources.

The New York Times

At the same time, we have derived no satisfaction whatever from the fact that we could open their officer, apartments, etc. Key-hoarding is wholly irrational, and probably can be explained only by recourse to Freudian psychology.

The New Yorker

The only regions in which considerable prehistoric aesthetic influence survives are Mexico and Guatemala, where native artisans have been able to keep their arts somewhat alive by recourse to ancient designs and functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, its main purpose, a practical one (which is furthered by recourse to the authority of Jesus), is to impel people to act in accordance with justice and charity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by recourse", ensure that the subsequent phrase directly specifies the resource, action, or entity being relied upon to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "by recourse" in casual or informal contexts. Its formal tone can sound stilted or out of place in everyday conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "by using" or "through" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by recourse" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the method, means, or strategy employed to achieve a particular end. It often introduces the action or entity being relied upon for assistance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English, often in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by recourse" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to specify the method or means employed to achieve a particular outcome. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is particularly suitable for formal contexts such as legal, academic, and scientific writing. While highly versatile, it is important to consider simpler alternatives like "by using" or "through" in informal settings to avoid sounding stilted. To enhance clarity, always ensure that the specific action, entity, or resource being relied upon is clearly identified after the phrase. Given its formal register, mindful application will contribute to precision and effectiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through appeal

Indicates a direct request or formal application to a higher authority or established process. This implies a more structured or formalized method of seeking assistance or resolution.

by means of

Suggests using a specific method or instrument to achieve a particular outcome. This is a more general phrase for indicating the tools or strategies employed.

by resorting to

Emphasizes the act of turning to something, often implying that it is a less desirable option. This phrase carries a stronger sense of last resort than the original.

with the aid of

Highlights the assistance received from something or someone, focusing on the supportive aspect. This alternative is useful for underscoring the help obtained.

through the use of

Focuses on the application or deployment of a particular resource or technique. This highlights the act of utilizing something tangible or specific.

by availing oneself of

This phrase is highly formal and indicates making use of an opportunity or resource. The formality sets it apart from the original phrase.

via the instrument of

Highlights a specific tool or legal document used to achieve an effect. This is more specific, referring to a formal means or channel.

by way of

Suggests a path or channel through which something is achieved. This emphasizes the manner or mechanism employed.

by delegation to

Emphasizes assigning authority or responsibility to another entity. This is suitable for contexts involving outsourcing or assigning tasks.

through the agency of

Emphasizes the action or intervention of an agent or force. This is useful when something is achieved indirectly via another entity.

FAQs

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

You can use "by recourse" to indicate the method or means used to achieve a particular outcome. For example, "The company sought compensation "by recourse" to legal action" or "The researchers verified the accuracy of the scheme "by recourse" to steady flow problems".

What's a simpler way to say "by recourse"?

Alternatives to "by recourse" include "by using", "through", or "by means of", depending on the context. These options are less formal and may be more suitable for everyday language.

Is "by recourse" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "by recourse" is perfectly appropriate and often preferred in formal writing, especially in legal, academic, and business contexts. It adds a level of precision and formality that is suitable for these settings.

What is the difference between "by recourse to" and "by appeal to"?

"By recourse to" indicates generally using a method or resource, while "by appeal to" specifies making a direct request to a higher authority or established process. The latter is more focused on seeking intervention from an external entity.