by which certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by which certain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clause that specifies a method or means by which something is done or achieved. Example: "There are several criteria by which certain candidates are selected for the scholarship."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Phagocytosis is the process by which certain cells ingest particulate material.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Phagocytosis, process by which certain living cells called phagocytes ingest or engulf other cells or particles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's the phenomenon by which certain gases – so-called greenhouse gases – in the atmosphere trap heat that would otherwise escape to space, thereby keeping the planet warm.

The Guardian

The process by which certain texts gain cultural privilege is screened out as though it didn't matter – there's something unwittingly distorting, even dishonest, about that".

The Guardian - Books

But mostly I see it as an example — again — of the fateful caprices by which certain word clusters survive the decades.

The New Yorker

But much of the early focus is not on customizing foods but on using genomics to unravel the mechanisms by which certain food ingredients affect the body.

The New York Times - Health

The "switch" discovered by scientists is part of the process by which certain molecules acting on DNA cause genes to be turned on or off.

The Guardian

A nifty bit of physics called the piezoelectric effect, by which certain materials generate an electric current when stressed, offers a way around that.

The Economist

Copyright developed out of the same system as royal patent grants, by which certain authors and printers were given the exclusive right to publish books and other materials.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Over and above the consecration applied to ordinary men, anointment has a place in the particular rituals by which certain men receive positions of eminence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Anybody wearing the fraternity pin," he added, and touched a blue dot tattooed under his left eye — an insigne, a visible password, by which certain former prison inmates could identify him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by which certain", ensure that the "certain" items or conditions are clearly defined or understood within the context to avoid ambiguity. For clarity, you may consider replacing "certain" with a more specific adjective.

Common error

Avoid using "by which certain" in very informal writing. Simpler phrases like "how" or "through" are often more appropriate for casual communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by which certain" functions as a relative clause introducing the means, method, or process by which something is accomplished or defined. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it indicates a specific pathway or set of conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by which certain" is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction that introduces a relative clause specifying a method or process. As Ludwig AI points out, it's most commonly found in formal contexts like science, news, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it's best to ensure clarity by defining what is "certain" within the context. For less formal writing, alternatives like "how" or "through which" may be more appropriate. Understanding its function and register allows for its effective use in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by which specific

Replaces "certain" with "specific", indicating a more defined or particular instance.

through which particular

Substitutes "by" with "through" and "certain" with "particular", emphasizing the channel or medium involved.

in which specific

Uses "in which" instead of "by which", focusing on the context or environment where something happens.

by means of which

Emphasizes the method or instrument used to achieve something.

by virtue of which

Highlights the cause or reason that enables something to happen.

by reason of which

Indicates the logical basis or justification for something.

through the medium of which

Focuses on the intermediary or channel through which something is conveyed or achieved.

via which

A more concise way to express the same idea, suitable for less formal contexts.

whereby

A single-word substitute that conveys the same meaning in a more formal tone.

by dint of which

Stresses the effort or force that brings about a result.

FAQs

How can I use "by which certain" in a sentence?

Use "by which certain" to introduce a clause that specifies the method or process by which something occurs. For example: "These are the criteria "by which certain" candidates are selected."

What are some alternatives to "by which certain"?

Alternatives include phrases like "by which specific", "through which particular", or simply using "how" or "through" depending on the context.

Is "by which certain" formal or informal?

"By which certain" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "how" or "through which."

What's the difference between "by which certain" and "by which specific"?

"By which certain" implies a less defined or predetermined selection, whereas ""by which specific"" suggests a more precise or predetermined selection process.