by simple observation

USAGE SUMMARY

"by simple observation" is correct and can be used in written English.
Example: By simple observation, we can see that the birds tend to migrate south for the winter.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This study implies that basal plane affinity may be predicted by simple observation of an ice crystal.

Cryobiology

By simple observation, it is straightforward to realize that one contact opportunity arises whenever there is an ordered sequence on the timeline (for a thorough analysis of intermittent links problems in DTNs, refer to [24], where the issue is addressed from the theoretical perspective of time-varying graphs).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

This theory can be easily borne out by simple observation.

Huffington Post

The general appearance of MAM-exposed brains did not differ from that of control animals, although MAM-exposed brains appeared slightly smaller by simple observation.

Plosone

Voluntary altruism in chimpanzees is not necessarily prompted by simple observation of another's struggle to attain a goal and therefore an accurate understanding of others' desires in the absence of communicative signals.

Plosone

Our weights are selected only by simple observation of each region classification performance, without optimization experiment.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Mill, by the way, here agrees with Kuhn about paradigms or generic theories that they are not falsifiable by simple observations: specific hypotheses are so falsifiable but not generic laws about laws.

SEP

Most limiting beliefs have been created by simple observations -- one experience or bad memory -- or have been passed down by parents, teachers, or other role models who created them.

Huffington Post

"I have no choice". "Life is a struggle". "I made my decision and now I need to stick with it". "Things never go my way". "Other people always seem happier than I am". "This is just the cruel hand life has dealt me". Most limiting beliefs have been created by simple observations -- one experience or bad memory -- or have been passed down by parents, teachers, or other role models who created them.

HuffPost

This relationship also allows a simple way to measure the forward rate constant k1 from a measurement of p z, as u is set by setting running current for ITP (and measured by simple observations), and N is easily measured (see the section entitled "Measurement of ITP-AC Parameters" of Part 2 of this two-part series).

Analytical Chemistry

The direction of Grace Manufacturing was determined by a simple observation, made far from the kitchen.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by simple observation" when you want to emphasize that a conclusion can be reached without complex analysis or tools. It highlights the directness and ease of understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "by simple observation" when the observation is not actually simple or requires specialized knowledge. This can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by simple observation" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb by specifying the means or method through which something is understood or determined. As illustrated by Ludwig, this phrase introduces a way of knowing that relies on direct, uncomplicated perception.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by simple observation" is a prepositional phrase used to denote that something can be understood or determined through direct, uncomplicated means. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academia. While versatile, it's best employed when the observation truly requires no specialized knowledge. Alternatives like "through straightforward examination" may be suitable depending on the context. The phrase carries a neutral tone, making it appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although its use should be carefully considered to avoid overstating the obvious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

via straightforward examination

Emphasizes the direct and uncomplicated nature of the examination.

through elementary inspection

Replaces "simple observation" with synonyms, emphasizing the straightforward nature of the inspection.

from a basic visual assessment

Focuses on visual assessment as the method of observation, making it more specific.

using uncomplicated scrutiny

Highlights the uncomplicated nature of the examination process.

from casual inspection

Suggests the observation is made without thoroughness or formality.

by merely looking

Simplifies the phrase, focusing solely on the act of looking.

with an uncritical eye

Highlights the lack of critical analysis in the observation.

by quick perusal

Focuses on the speed and brevity of the observation.

through a cursory glance

Implies a very quick and superficial observation.

on plain sight

Indicates that something is easily noticeable and requires no special effort to observe.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by simple observation"?

You can use alternatives such as "through straightforward examination", "from a basic visual assessment", or "by merely looking", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is "by simple observation" most appropriate?

The phrase "by simple observation" is suitable when describing conclusions drawn from readily apparent evidence, without the need for complex analysis or specialized tools. It's common in scientific, news, and general discussions where clarity and accessibility are valued.

What does "by simple observation" imply about the method of analysis?

It implies that the method of analysis is direct, uncomplicated, and requires minimal expertise. The conclusion is based on what can be easily seen or understood without deeper investigation.

Is "by simple observation" considered formal or informal language?

The phrase "by simple observation" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives may be preferred in highly academic or technical writing.