by which specific

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by which specific" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to introduce a clause that specifies something, but it lacks clarity and context. Example: "The method by which specific criteria are evaluated needs to be revised."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Current technologies applied for mutation detection include traditional karyotyping and Southern blotting, as well as a multitude of new tests, including FISH with specific probes or the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which refers to an enzymatic process by which specific regions of the genome can be amplified for molecular study.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although great progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms by which specific atoms are assembled into large biological molecules, the principles involved in the assembly of molecules into membranes, which are organized structures of a higher degree of complexity than large molecules, are not yet very well understood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ubiquitination is a posttranslational modification by which specific lysine residues of the target protein are conjugated to polyubiquitin chains, using specific cellular ubiquitin conjugation systems.

Protein & Cell

Overall, the paper provides a structure by which specific organizational drivers of EC deployment can be analyzed and controlled and relevant managerial issues can be addressed.

International Journal of Information Management

Since mammalian miRNAs tend to bind to target mRNAs via imperfect complementarity, understanding exactly which target mRNAs are recognized by which specific miRNAs is a challenge.

Brain Research

This collagen onplant model allows for unambiguous quantification of angiogenesis and also for in‐depth analysis of the cellular and biochemical mechanisms by which specific cells of different origin or purified effector molecules induce or inhibit the angiogenic process.

Methods in Enzymology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

For example, by asking which specific covert investigatory techniques should be removed, it managed to get mixed answers that failed to produce a clear vote against any one technique.

The Guardian - Opinion

Asked by host Joe Scarborough about which specific polls showed those results, Brewer admitted that she couldn't name anything off the top of her head.

Huffington Post

κ is a factor by which the specific heat capacity in the interface differs on average from the specific heat capacity in the pure bulk fluid.

Nanoscale Research Letters

This defines an expected time by which a specific event should occur.

Journal of Cloud Computing

Neither the basis by which only specific positions on the growing intermediate are methylated ("programming") nor the mechanism of methylation are well understood.

Cell Chemical Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity and grammatical correctness, replace "by which specific" with alternatives like "through which particular" or "using specific".

Common error

Avoid using "by which specific" as it can sound unnatural and grammatically clumsy. Opt for clearer alternatives to improve the flow and readability of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by which specific" functions as a prepositional phrase that attempts to introduce a clause specifying a particular method, means, or condition. However, Ludwig AI indicates that this phrasing is grammatically awkward and could be improved for clarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

77%

Encyclopedias

5%

News & Media

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "by which specific" is frequently used, Ludwig AI flags it as grammatically awkward. It functions to introduce specific conditions or methods, commonly in formal scientific contexts. To enhance clarity and grammatical correctness, consider alternatives such as "through which particular", "using specific", or "via specific", depending on the intended emphasis. Remember that choosing the right phrase can significantly improve the precision and readability of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through which particular

Replaces "by which specific" to emphasize a particular instance or case, providing greater clarity.

by which certain

Similar to "through which particular", but uses "certain" to indicate a specific but not necessarily unique instance.

by means of specific

Emphasizes the method or tool used to achieve something specific.

using specific

A more concise way of expressing the use of particular tools or methods.

via specific

Indicates that something is achieved or transmitted through a specific channel or method.

in accordance with specific

Highlights compliance with particular rules or guidelines.

according to specific

Indicates that information or actions are based on specific sources or criteria.

under specific

Sets a condition or situation for an action to take place.

with specific

Highlights the presence of particular features or characteristics.

employing specific

Focuses on the active use of specific resources or techniques.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by which specific" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives such as "through which particular", "using specific", or "via specific" depending on the context to improve clarity and grammatical correctness. For example, instead of "the mechanism by which specific mutations cause disease", try "the mechanism "through which particular" mutations cause disease".

What are some common alternatives to "by which specific" in scientific writing?

In scientific writing, you can often replace "by which specific" with more precise phrases like "by means of specific", "employing specific", or "according to specific" to enhance the accuracy and professionalism of your writing.

Is "by which specific" grammatically correct?

While frequently used, "by which specific" is considered grammatically awkward. It's generally better to opt for clearer and more direct phrasing, such as "using specific" or "through which particular".

How does the choice of alternative phrases affect the meaning compared to "by which specific"?

The choice of alternative phrases can subtly shift the emphasis. For example, "using specific" focuses on the tool or method, while "through which particular" emphasizes the process or pathway. Understanding these nuances can help you select the most appropriate phrase for your intended meaning.