by weight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by weight" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to specify a particular measure of something, typically used when referring to a material or substance. For example: "The sample of iron was weighed by weight to determine its mass."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Speed restricted by weight.

The New Yorker

Waiters and waitresses tally orders by weight.

The New York Times - Food

A sign listed speed limits by weight.

The New Yorker

"I bought it by weight," he said.

The New York Times

Kellogg's Frosties, 37% sugar by weight?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Women," he huffs, "are obsessed by weight".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Its forward momentum is determined by weight and speed.

The Guardian

She was plagued by weight problems all her life.

The Guardian - Music

"That's almost 50percentt carbon dioxide by weight".

The New York Times - Science

Finding it In Sarajevo, bakeries (pèkare) sell burek by weight.

The Guardian - Travel

Food is priced by weight and great for vegetarians.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the composition of a mixture, specify percentages "by weight" to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity with volume or molarity.

Common error

Avoid using "by weight" interchangeably with "by volume." Always clarify which measure you're using, as they can significantly differ, especially in recipes or scientific formulations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by weight" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the method of measurement or proportion. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it indicates that something is determined or measured based on weight, providing clarity in contexts where other measurement methods (like volume) could be used. For example, in recipes or scientific formulas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by weight" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that something is measured or proportioned based on its weight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to ensure clarity and accuracy, particularly in technical or quantitative contexts. Predominantly featured in Science and News & Media, it helps to provide precise information, remove ambiguity, and promote consistent understanding. When using "by weight", it's essential to distinguish it from "by volume" and specify the measurement method accurately. Overall, it contributes to precise communication in various fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a weight basis

Indicates that calculations or comparisons are done using weight as the primary factor.

according to its mass

Specifies measurement based on mass, similar to weight but scientifically distinct.

in terms of weight

Emphasizes that weight is the specific aspect being considered.

in proportion to its weight

Emphasizes a ratio or relationship directly tied to weight.

with respect to weight

Similar to "in terms of weight" but slightly more formal.

as a function of weight

Highlights a mathematical relationship where weight is a determining factor.

measured by its weight

Focuses on the act of measuring using weight as the metric.

based on its heaviness

Uses a more descriptive term for weight, focusing on the perceived heaviness.

quantified by weight

Highlights the use of weight as a means of quantification.

weight-wise

A more casual way to indicate consideration of weight.

FAQs

How do you use "by weight" in a sentence?

The phrase "by weight" is used to specify that a measurement or proportion is determined based on the weight of a substance. For example: "The recipe calls for sugar to be 20% "by weight"."

What's the difference between "by weight" and "by volume"?

"By weight" refers to measuring ingredients based on their mass, while "by volume" refers to measuring them based on the amount of space they occupy. For accuracy, especially in scientific or culinary contexts, it's crucial to specify which method you're using.

What can I say instead of "by weight"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "according to its mass", "in proportion to its weight" or "on a weight basis".

When is it important to specify measurements "by weight"?

It is particularly important to specify measurements "by weight" in situations where accuracy is critical, such as in scientific experiments, pharmaceutical formulations, and precise baking recipes. This ensures consistent results regardless of variations in density or packing.