by what measures

USAGE SUMMARY

"by what measures" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about how something should be achieved, or in a discussion about what criteria should be used to evaluate something. For example: "We need to decide how best to reduce emissions - by what measures shall we do this?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's not clear if the draft would seek to reduce the number of workers allowed to enter under such programs, and by how much if so; or it if will make it harder to get applications approved — and by what measures.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

And by what measure?

The New York Times

By what measure?

The New York Times

Outdo by what measure?

The Guardian - Film

But by what measure has he restored your greatness?

The Guardian - Opinion

But who gets to decide that tyranny is imminent, and by what measure is the imminence of tyranny determined?

The New York Times

In one of these set pieces, Halperin dines with Andrea Mitchell, the veteran NBC News anchor, and asks her by what measure this election is different from those of the past.

The New Yorker

How much black ink and by what measure, the privately held company will not say, and amid a sharp advertising downturn, no one denies that its situation remains precarious.

The New York Times

So by what measure can we claim to be successful so far?" Today's warning was the clearest sign yet of the near certainty in intelligence circles that the audiotaped message broadcast earlier this week, praising terror attacks in Bali and Kuwait, was an authentic recording by Mr. bin Laden.

The New York Times

(No, I don't know by what measure).

TechCrunch

But who is really greener than whom and by what measure?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by what measures", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being evaluated or achieved. This phrase is most effective when questioning the basis for a claim or decision.

Common error

Avoid using "by what measures" in informal contexts. It can sound overly formal or interrogative. Consider using simpler alternatives like "how" or "in what way" for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by what measures" functions as an interrogative adverbial phrase, prompting clarification on the criteria or methods used in a particular situation. It seeks to understand the basis for evaluation or action, often implying a need for justification or transparency.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by what measures" is a grammatically correct interrogative phrase used to inquire about the specific criteria or methods employed in an evaluation or action. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, it's appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, such as news and media or scientific discourse. It prompts for justification and clarity, making it suitable for scenarios where accountability and transparency are desired. Related phrases include "using which criteria" and "according to what standards", offering similar ways to question the basis for a claim or decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

using which criteria

Focuses on the specific standards employed for judgment.

according to what standards

Emphasizes adherence to particular benchmarks or norms.

based on what metrics

Highlights the quantitative aspects of assessment.

by what yardstick

Uses a metaphorical tool for comparison and evaluation.

through which mechanisms

Focuses on the processes or systems enabling an action.

by what methodology

Emphasizes the structured approach taken.

via what procedures

Highlights the formal steps or processes followed.

with what instruments

Focuses on the specific tools or means used.

by what principles

Emphasizes the guiding beliefs or values.

along what lines

Suggests a direction or framework for action or thought.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by what measures" to sound less formal?

Alternatives include "how", "in what way", or "what criteria are being used?" depending on the context. Each option offers a less formal approach while retaining the core meaning of seeking clarification on methods or standards.

Is "by what measures" interchangeable with "by what standard"?

While similar, "by what "standard"" often implies a fixed benchmark, whereas "by what "measures"" can refer to a broader range of evaluation methods. The best choice depends on whether you are referring to a specific standard or a more general assessment approach.

How to use "by what measures" in a sentence?

Use "by what "measures"" when you want to know the specific criteria or methods used to achieve a particular result or to evaluate something. For example: "By what measures will success be determined?"

What's the difference between "by what measures" and "what measures"?

"By what "measures"" is typically used to inquire about the specific criteria or methods being used for evaluation or action. "What "measures"", on the other hand, is used to inquire what precautions are taken.