by reference to instruments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by reference to instruments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal, financial, or technical contexts where one is referring to specific documents or tools that provide evidence or support for a statement or action. Example: "The agreement was executed by reference to instruments that outline the terms and conditions of the partnership."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on the control and maneuvering of an airplane solely by reference to instruments.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is done by reference to an instrument known as FAL (Functional Ability List).

BMC Public Health

The client's capacity for work is determined by reference to an instrument known as FAL (Functional Ability List).

BMC Public Health

PA facilities checklists were designed by reference to some previous instruments [ 32- 34].

BMC Public Health

Before the discovery of the Mary Rose shawm, an early predecessor to the oboe, instrument historians had been puzzled by reference to "still shawms", or "soft" shawms, that were said to have a sound that was less shrill than earlier shawms.

Wikipedia

Rock is better defined, then, by its eclecticism than by reference to some musical essence, and it is better understood in terms of its general use of technology rather than by its use of particular instruments (such as the guitar).

Encyclopedia Britannica

These references were replaced by references to a rival report, financed in part by the American Petroleum Institute.

The New Yorker

Embarrassed by references to bodily functions?

Huffington Post

The novel's title is a reference to an instrument of torture that was invented in the Southern Cone.

Wikipedia

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of orthodontic PILs with reference to the DISCERN instrument.

Progress in Orthodontics

The primary aim of this study was to assess the quality of orthodontic PILs with reference to the DISCERN instrument.

Progress in Orthodontics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by reference to instruments", ensure that the specific instruments are clearly defined or understood within the context. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "by reference to instruments" without specifying which instruments are being referenced. This can lead to confusion and weaken the argument or explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by reference to instruments" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the means or basis for an action or determination. It specifies that instruments are the source of information or the method used, as suggested by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by reference to instruments" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that a determination or action is based on specific tools or data. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and most frequently found in scientific and news media contexts, implying a formal or neutral register. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to clearly specify the instruments being referenced to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. While not exceedingly common, its usage is well-established and contributes to precise communication in technical and professional settings. The similar phrases, “according to instruments” or “based on instruments”, serve as strong alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with regard to instruments

Changes preposition from "by" to "with", implying a slightly more formal consideration of the instruments.

in relation to instruments

Replaces "reference" with "relation", focusing on the connection or relationship with instruments.

according to instruments

Shifts the focus to instruments as the source of information or authority.

based on instruments

Emphasizes the foundation or basis being the instruments themselves.

relying on instruments

Highlights the dependence on instruments for information or operation.

through the use of instruments

Focuses on the action of using instruments to achieve a certain outcome.

utilizing instruments

Implies a more active and deliberate use of instruments.

with the aid of instruments

Highlights the assistance provided by instruments.

by means of instruments

Focuses on the method or means by which something is achieved, using instruments.

via instruments

Short and direct way of stating that instruments are the pathway or channel.

FAQs

How can I use "by reference to instruments" in a sentence?

You can use "by reference to instruments" to indicate that something is determined or understood based on specific tools or data. For example: "The aircraft's position was determined by reference to its navigation instruments."

What's a good alternative to "by reference to instruments"?

Alternatives include "according to instruments", "based on instruments", or "relying on instruments", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "by reference to instruments" or "with reference to instruments"?

Both "by reference to instruments" and "with reference to instruments" are grammatically correct, but "by reference to instruments" often implies a more direct or determinative reliance on the instruments. Use the one that best fits the nuance you intend to convey.

What does "by reference to instruments" mean in a technical context?

In a technical context, "by reference to instruments" means that measurements, calculations, or decisions are made using data or readings from specific measuring devices or tools. This ensures objectivity and accuracy.