by some lights

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by some lights" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is true or valid from a particular perspective or set of criteria. Example: "By some lights, his actions could be seen as heroic, while others view them as reckless."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

By some lights this is a tragedy.

The New York Times - Books

An also-ran, by some lights.

The New Yorker

By some lights, it is still grappling with both.

The New York Times

Talk kills mystique too, and by some lights "Wise Men" talks too much about too little.

The New York Times - Books

The novel form, by some lights, was invented in Europe only in the 17th century, when there was a broadly based reading public.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another is the country's trade and budget deficits, which by some lights appeared to be improving until Hurricane Katrina boosted the government's projected outlays.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Contrary to X-rays, neutrons can be attenuated by some light materials, such as hydrogen, but can penetrate many heavy materials.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Contrary to X-rays, neutrons can be attenuated by some light materials, as for example, hydrogen and boron, but penetrate many heavy materials.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

In reinforced concrete beams, less stressed concrete near neutral axis can be replaced by some light weight material like bricks to reduce the weight of the structure and also achieve the economy.

Procedia Engineering

Besides the well-known radiographic examinations with X-rays and γ-rays, neutron radiography provides an important endorsement to radiographic examinations in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT), as contrary to X-rays, neutrons are attenuated by some light materials, as hydrogen, boron and lithium but penetrate many heavy materials.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

The nebula is visible with the naked eye even from areas affected by some light pollution.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by some lights", consider immediately following it with a contrasting viewpoint to showcase the multifaceted nature of the topic.

Common error

Avoid using "by some lights" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. It can make your text sound repetitive and detract from the impact of each individual perspective. Choose alternative phrases like "from a certain viewpoint" or "in a particular interpretation" to vary your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by some lights" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a specific perspective or viewpoint. As Ludwig AI points out, it indicates that a particular assessment or interpretation is valid only under certain conditions or from a particular angle. It sets the stage for presenting an alternative understanding of a situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by some lights" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to introduce a specific or alternative perspective. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's commonly found in news and media contexts, serving to qualify statements and acknowledge multiple viewpoints. While versatile, it's best used sparingly to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "from a certain viewpoint" or "according to some perspectives" to avoid repetition. Using "by some lights" effectively enhances the nuance and depth of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to some perspectives

More explicit about the existence of multiple viewpoints.

by certain opinions

Emphasizes that the view is subjective.

from a certain viewpoint

Replaces "lights" with a more direct term for perspective.

from a specific angle

Uses a visual metaphor for perspective.

in a particular interpretation

Focuses on the act of interpreting a situation.

in one interpretation

Highlights a single, specific understanding.

considering certain factors

Highlights the elements influencing the perspective.

under specific circumstances

Emphasizes the conditional aspect of the viewpoint.

in some estimations

Indicates a calculation or judgment is being made.

in a sense

Simplifies the phrase to indicate a limited or qualified agreement.

FAQs

What does "by some lights" mean?

The phrase "by some lights" means according to a particular point of view or under certain conditions. It indicates that a statement or assessment is true or valid from a specific perspective, even if not universally accepted.

How can I use "by some lights" in a sentence?

You can use "by some lights" to introduce a perspective that might not be immediately obvious or widely shared. For example, "By some lights, his actions could be seen as heroic, while others view them as reckless."

What are some alternatives to saying "by some lights"?

You can use alternatives like "from a certain viewpoint", "in a particular interpretation", or "according to some perspectives" to express a similar idea.

Is "by some lights" formal or informal?

The phrase "by some lights" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it appears more frequently in news and media than in strictly academic or scientific writing.