by the clock

USAGE SUMMARY

"by the clock" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that occurs or is done at a particular time, or to refer to the time itself. For example, "She always arrives for work precisely by the clock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The other is the Clock expression which is subjected to a negative autoregulation by the CLOCK protein.

BMC Systems Biology

Christopher Hugh Forsythe lived by the clock.

The New York Times

Which means rarely by the clock.

The Guardian

Inspiration doesn't work by the clock.

The Guardian

Labour was defeated by the clock.

The Guardian - Opinion

runs with a different random seed set by the clock.

Yale University

Here's a game that doesn't go by the clock.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

They are mocked and shunned by the clock-time people.

The New York Times - Books

Especially, one rodent study reported that MAO-A expression was regulated by the clock-component gene [29].

EJNMMI Research

One is the negative autoregulatory feedback exerted by the CLOCK-BMAL1 on the expression of Bmal1 gene.

BMC Systems Biology

Additionally, we identified E-box motifs, DNA sequences recognized by the CLOCK CYCLE heterodimer, upstream of genes showing rhythmic expression.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by the clock" to emphasize adherence to a strict timetable or schedule. For example, "Medications should be administered by the clock to maintain consistent blood levels."

Common error

Avoid using "by the clock" when describing situations that require flexibility or spontaneity. This phrase implies rigidity, which may not be appropriate in all contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by the clock" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing or scheduling of an action or event. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to a strict timetable. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

33%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by the clock" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate adherence to a strict schedule. As shown in the examples provided by Ludwig, it's frequently used in news, scientific, and academic contexts to emphasize punctuality and precision. When using this phrase, consider whether it truly reflects the intended level of rigidity, or if alternatives like "according to schedule" or "at a set time" might be more appropriate. As Ludwig AI confirms, "by the clock" is a reliable choice when emphasizing the importance of specific timing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to schedule

Focuses on adherence to a predefined timetable.

on a timed basis

Emphasizes that something is done with specific time constraints.

punctually

Highlights being on time and avoiding delays.

at a set time

Indicates an action occurring at a predetermined moment.

on the dot

Implies precise timing without deviation.

like clockwork

Suggests smooth, predictable, and regular operation.

as scheduled

Refers to an event happening according to plan.

time-based

Describes something governed by time.

regularly

Implies something happens at consistent intervals.

at regular intervals

Highlights consistent timing of occurrences.

FAQs

How can I use "by the clock" in a sentence?

You can use "by the clock" to indicate that something is done according to a specific schedule or time. For example, "The medication needs to be taken "by the clock" to be effective."

What are some alternatives to saying "by the clock"?

Alternatives include "according to schedule", "at a set time", or "punctually", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "by the clock" or "on time"?

"By the clock" emphasizes adherence to a precise schedule, while "on time" simply means not late. The best choice depends on whether you want to highlight precision or just punctuality.

What does it mean to live "by the clock"?

Living "by the clock" means organizing one's life around a strict schedule and routine, often prioritizing efficiency and punctuality.