by setting up a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by setting up a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of establishing or creating something, often in a procedural or instructional context. Example: "The project will be successful by setting up a clear timeline and assigning specific tasks to each team member."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A — By setting up a huge and arrogant bureaucracy, or horde of incompetents.

The New Yorker

Although she is Muslim, born in Turkey, she celebrates Christmas by setting up a few decorations.

The New York Times

Mr. Leroy is not the first to begin by setting up a soapbox in the street.

The New York Times

The simplest way to put moisture into the air is by setting up a humidifier.

The New York Times

Society deals with the inherent wriggliness of language by setting up a series of trip wires.

The New Yorker

The company has responded by setting up a review of all agency worker terms and conditions.

Independent

By setting up a new organisation, it hopes to put itself beyond the law.

The Economist

But advocates argue that such volatility could be smoothed by setting up a buffer fund.

The Economist

NATO also pledged to deepen ties with Georgia by setting up a NATO-Georgia Commission. NATO-Georgia Commission

The Economist

Toyoda will do his best to improve things next time by setting up a special safety committee, headed by himself.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Reduce moisture in the air by setting-up a fan, dehumidifier, or opening a window.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by setting up a" to clearly indicate the method or means by which a goal is achieved or a process is initiated. Ensure the noun following 'a' is specific and well-defined for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "by setting up a" when a more direct, active voice would be clearer and more concise. For instance, instead of "Progress was made by setting up a committee", try "The committee made progress".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by setting up a" functions as an instrumental prepositional phrase, indicating the means or method by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its common use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

31%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by setting up a" is a versatile tool for indicating the method or means by which an action is performed. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it's grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the noun following 'a'. While generally neutral in register, avoid overuse in passive voice constructions for stronger writing. Alternatives like "by establishing a" and "by creating a" can provide nuanced variations. Overall, "by setting up a" is a reliable and effective way to explain how something is accomplished.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by establishing a

Focuses on the formal action of creating or founding something.

by creating a

Emphasizes the act of bringing something new into existence.

by forming a

Highlights the process of assembling or organizing elements into a coherent whole.

by initiating a

Stresses the start or commencement of a process or system.

by instituting a

Implies the formal introduction of a rule, system, or policy.

by implementing a

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect.

by developing a

Highlights the gradual growth or evolution of something.

by arranging a

Emphasizes the careful placement or organization of elements.

by preparing a

Stresses the act of making something ready for use or action.

by constructing a

Highlights the act of building or assembling something, often physically.

FAQs

How can I use "by setting up a" in a sentence?

The phrase "by setting up a" is used to describe the action of establishing or creating something as a means to achieve a particular outcome. For example, "They improved efficiency by setting up a new system".

What are some alternatives to "by setting up a"?

You can use alternatives like "by establishing a", "by creating a", or "by forming a" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "by setting up a" or "through setting up a"?

Both "by setting up a" and "through setting up a" are grammatically correct, but "by setting up a" is generally more common and direct. "Through setting up a" might be preferred when emphasizing the process or means by which something is achieved.

What's the difference between "by setting up a" and "with setting up a"?

"By setting up a" indicates the method or means used to achieve something. "With setting up a" is less common and might imply a condition or circumstance. It's generally better to use "by setting up a" for clarity.