by this fluke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by this fluke" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unexpected or unlikely occurrence that leads to a particular outcome. Example: "I managed to win the game by this fluke, as I had no idea what I was doing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Euhaplorchis californiensis, another fluke, makes fish swim in shallow waters, where they are more likely to be eaten by birds, this fluke's primary host.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

The Texas Rangers took a 3-2 lead over the Toronto Blue Jays in the top of the 7th after this fluke throw by catcher Russell Martin.

Huffington Post

An FhCatL5 L69F variant showed an increase in the ability to cleave substrates with P2 proline, indicating F69 variants expressed by the fluke would likely have this ability.

Biochimie

By the fluke of having gone — for a single year — to a big-city high school, I happened to be one of them.

The New Yorker

A current waveform is generated by the Fluke harmonic generator as shown in Fig. 9.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

The potential (V) was then measured between two inner probes (2 and 3) by the Fluke meter and finally the soil resistance was measured by the meter.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Schistosomiasis, a disease caused by the fluke worm Schistosoma, is "second only to malaria as the most devastating parasitic disease in tropical countries.

Wikipedia

Some of Mr. Ashcroft's past is so embarrassing you have to wonder if he got this far by a fluke.

The New York Times

Once Jessica Dragonette, the radio soprano, got in by fluke, she got an autograph.

The New Yorker

In his preface to "Corridors of Power," Snow explained: "By some fluke, the title of this novel seems to have passed into circulation during the time the book itself was being written.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is truly fascinating how the human body can create twins, seemingly by complete fluke, grow them and then deliver them into this world.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by this fluke" to add a touch of unexpectedness or surprise to your writing. It's particularly effective when describing how an unlikely event led to a significant result.

Common error

Avoid using "by this fluke" in highly formal or professional writing where a more precise and deliberate tone is expected. Opt for alternatives like "due to unforeseen circumstances" or "unexpectedly" for a more suitable effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by this fluke" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action occurred. It specifies that the action happened unexpectedly or accidentally. Although Ludwig doesn't provide examples, we can assume it acts like other adverbial phrases.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by this fluke" is a grammatically sound but relatively uncommon way to describe an unexpected or accidental occurrence. It functions as an adverbial phrase, adding emphasis to the role of chance in an event. Ludwig AI indicates that it doesn't provide direct examples, so the analysis is based on general linguistic principles. While acceptable in neutral or informal contexts, it's advisable to use more precise alternatives in formal writing. Consider options like "by sheer luck", "by accident", or "by chance" to convey a similar meaning with varying degrees of emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by chance

A general term indicating that something happened without a specific plan or cause.

by sheer luck

Emphasizes the role of pure chance in the outcome, highlighting the absence of skill or planning.

by accident

Focuses on the unintended nature of the event, suggesting it happened without purpose or design.

incidentally

Highlights the casual or unplanned nature of the occurrence, downplaying any deliberate intention.

coincidentally

Stresses the simultaneous occurrence of events without a causal relationship, emphasizing the chance aspect.

fortuitously

Indicates a lucky or favorable outcome resulting from chance, highlighting the positive consequences.

by a twist of fate

Highlights the role of destiny or an unpredictable force in shaping the outcome.

unintentionally

Focuses on the lack of intent behind the action, underscoring its accidental nature.

through happenstance

Emphasizes the role of random events and circumstances in the occurrence.

inadvertently

Suggests a mistake or oversight led to the outcome, emphasizing the unintentional aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "by this fluke" in a sentence?

Use "by this fluke" to describe an unexpected or accidental occurrence that leads to a particular outcome. For example, "I managed to win the game by this fluke, as I had no idea what I was doing".

What can I say instead of "by this fluke"?

You can use alternatives like "by sheer luck", "by accident", or "by chance" depending on the context.

Is "by this fluke" formal or informal?

"By this fluke" tends to be more informal. In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "due to unforeseen circumstances" or "unexpectedly".

What's the difference between "by this fluke" and "by design"?

"By this fluke" indicates something happened accidentally or unexpectedly, while "by design" means something was planned or intentional. They are essentially opposites.