by this thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by this thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific object or concept that has been previously mentioned or is understood in context. Example: "I was surprised by this thing that happened during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"I swear by this thing now".

The New York Times - Tech

People felt rooted to the spot, blinded by this thing.

The New York Times - Arts

"Right now we're held hostage by this thing.

The New York Times

I'm sure George is wounded by this thing.

The New York Times - Sports

"Everywhere I go I hear stories from people who have been touched by this thing".

The New Yorker

Asked what he meant by "this thing," the official cut short theconversation, saying: "I can't say now.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

By this: things founded clean on their own shapes, Water and ground in their extremity.

Los Angeles Times

"By then, this thing will be made public in the mainstream media and within the province".

The New York Times

Now that's been completely destroyed by plonking this thing in the middle".

The Guardian - Arts

By incorporating this thing, significant information exchange overhead can be reduced.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

He actually argues against Blackburn's contentions that health care costs are spiking everywhere by deploying this thing called "facts".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by this thing" when referring to something already understood or previously mentioned to maintain conversational flow.

Common error

While acceptable in informal contexts, overuse of "by this thing" can make your writing sound vague or imprecise in formal settings. Opt for more specific language to clearly convey your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by this thing" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It indicates the means or instrument by which something occurs or is affected. As seen in Ludwig, it frequently connects an action or feeling to a specific, previously mentioned object or situation. Its primary purpose is to reference something contextual.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Tech

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by this thing" is a grammatically correct phrase used to refer back to a specific item, event, or concept already present in the context. Ludwig AI highlights its frequent use in News & Media but notes its register is generally neutral to informal. For formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives. While the phrase is valid and understandable, clarity and context are key to its effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by means of this

More formal way of indicating the method or instrument used.

in this manner

Refers to a particular style or way of doing something.

via this method

Emphasizes the process or technique used.

by this process

Highlights a specific sequence of steps.

through this medium

Focuses on the channel or means by which something is done.

using this approach

Highlights a specific way of tackling a problem or situation.

through this avenue

Focuses on the channel or path used.

with this tool

Specifically mentions the instrument or device employed.

in virtue of this

Emphasizes the reason or basis for something.

owing to this

Highlights the cause or reason that leads to something.

FAQs

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

You can use "by this thing" to refer to something already mentioned or understood in context. For example, "I was surprised "by this thing" that happened during the meeting".

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

You can use alternatives like "through this medium", "via this method", or "by means of this" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "by this thing" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "by this thing" in informal writing or conversation when the referent is clear. Avoid it in formal writing where precise language is preferred.

Is "by this thing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "by this thing" is grammatically correct, although its appropriateness depends on the context and the desired level of formality.