by selection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by selection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is done through a process of choosing or selecting from options. Example: "The candidates were chosen by selection based on their qualifications and experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Candidates are being grilled by selection teams.

The Economist

But in evolution, brains evolve by selection.

The New York Times - Science

Just what predictions let us determine whether religion spread by selection among groups of human beings or by selection among the memes these groups happened to carry?

The New Yorker

By selection of the various flour streams it is possible to make flour of various grades.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But there is another way for coalitions to govern not by selection but by promiscuous inclusion.

The Economist

b By selection methods.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

99% of the time you get screwed by selection bias.

TechCrunch

Fig. 7 Set of objects grouped by selection category.

ROBOMECH Journal

However, the suggestive observational data are limited by selection biases.

American Heart Journal

What kind of state-space structures are favored by selection?

Journal of Theoretical Biology

The pore size and structure can be controlled by selection of catalyst and gasification conditions.

Carbon

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by selection", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being selected and the criteria or process involved. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by selection" repetitively in complex sentences. This can make the writing sound monotonous. Instead, vary your sentence structure and use synonyms such as "through selection" or rephrase to emphasize the action of selecting itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by selection" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the method or means by which an action is carried out. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing processes and outcomes resulting from a choosing process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

26%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by selection" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is achieved or determined through a choosing process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in science and news media. While alternatives like "through selection" and "via selection" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance. Be mindful of overuse and ensure the context clearly defines what is being selected to enhance clarity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through selection

Replaces the preposition "by" with "through", maintaining the core meaning but with a slightly different emphasis on the process itself.

via selection

Uses "via" as an alternative preposition, indicating a means or route through which something is achieved.

based on selection

Shifts the focus to the foundation or criteria used for the selection process.

as a result of selection

Emphasizes the outcome or consequence of the selection process.

through a selection process

Adds specificity by explicitly mentioning the "process", making it more descriptive.

by means of selection

Uses a more formal tone to express the method by which something is achieved.

by virtue of selection

Indicates that something is a consequence of the power or right conferred by being selected.

using a selection method

Highlights the deliberate use of a particular method for selection.

choosing

A concise verb form that can replace the entire prepositional phrase in certain contexts.

selecting

Another verb form that is a synonym for "choosing" and offers a more direct way to express the action of selection.

FAQs

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

Use "by selection" to indicate that something is achieved through a deliberate process of choosing. For instance, "The team was formed "through selection" based on skill and experience."

What's a good alternative to "by selection"?

Alternatives include "via selection", "through selection", or "based on selection". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "by selection" or "by choosing"?

"By selection" typically refers to a more formal or systematic process, while "by choosing" implies a more general act of making a choice. The appropriateness depends on the context. In some cases, a simpler verb like "selecting" or "choosing" might be sufficient.

Can "by selection" be used in both scientific and general contexts?

Yes, "by selection" is appropriate for both scientific and general contexts. In scientific writing, it often refers to natural selection or experimental procedures. In general writing, it can describe any process where choices are made based on specific criteria.