by spreading with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by spreading with" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to describe a method of distribution or application, but it lacks clarity and proper usage. Example: "The solution works effectively by spreading with a brush over the surface."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Then by spreading with the codes, we get the real symbol transmitted at frequency and time by (22).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

By spreading with the codes, we get the real symbol transmitted at frequency and time by (37).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Mueller-Hinton agar plates supplemented with sheep blood were inoculated over the entire surface of the agar with drug-resistant bacteria by spreading with sterile cotton swabs.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The lowest leaf of each plant was treated, applying half of one droplet to the upper surface and half to the lower by gently spreading with a spatula.

Plosone

LIMAN: USSR, run-off farming by spreading floodwater with large earth banks, Section 5.3.2.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Try to make the two sides stick by spreading it with a knife.

WikiHow

Hold skin taught by spreading it with your fingers away from the wax-covered area.

WikiHow

Endothelial cells heal mostly by migration and spreading, with cell proliferation playing a secondary role.

Progress in Retinal and Eye Research

Drop batter by tablespoonfuls into oil, spreading with a spoon to make thin, lacy pancakes.

The New York Times - Magazine

The idea of diminishing the threat from the Middle East by spreading democracy, beginning with Iraq, had occurred to the Bush Administration before W.M.D.s turned out not to exist.

The New Yorker

Rick Carlisle has been splendid in his approach throughout the playoffs by spreading the floor with shooters around Dirk -- thus forcing defenders to stay home for enough time for him to go off.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Opt for clearer and more common phrases like "by applying with" or "through distribution with" to ensure your writing is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "by spreading with" as it is grammatically unconventional and can confuse readers. Choose alternatives that clearly express your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by spreading with" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun. It aims to describe a method or action involving distribution or application. However, Ludwig AI indicates that this phrasing is not considered correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

Wiki

11%

News & Media

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by spreading with" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a method of application or distribution. However, Ludwig AI marks it as grammatically incorrect, suggesting it's an awkward or unconventional construction. While it appears in some scientific and general contexts, clearer alternatives like "by applying with" or "through distribution with" are recommended for better clarity and adherence to standard English. It occurs rarely in common sources. Therefore, avoiding this phrase and opting for more common alternatives is advisable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by applying with

Focuses on the action of applying something using a tool or method.

through distribution with

Emphasizes the process of distributing something in conjunction with another element.

using a spreading motion with

Highlights the manner of spreading in conjunction with something else.

by distributing using

Focuses on the act of distribution as the method of accomplishing something.

via application with

Highlights that something is being applied in conjunction with another item.

by incorporating through spreading

Emphasizes that incorporation happens via the action of spreading.

through dispersion in conjunction with

Focuses on the dispersion of an element along with something else.

by surface coating with

Emphasizes the action of covering a surface in conjunction with a certain material.

by the act of covering with

Highlights the activity of coating a surface with a material

via even distribution with

It refers to achieving something by evenly scattering something alongside with it

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "by spreading with"?

Consider using phrases like "by applying with", "through distribution with", or "using a spreading motion with" for better clarity.

Is "by spreading with" grammatically correct?

While sometimes used, "by spreading with" is not considered standard English. It's better to use more common and precise alternatives.

How can I improve the clarity of sentences using "by spreading with"?

Reframe your sentence to use active voice and more direct phrasing, such as "apply the substance with a brush" instead of "by spreading with a brush".

Which is more effective, "by applying with" or "by spreading with"?

"By applying with" is generally more effective and easily understood than "by spreading with", as it is more common in standard English.