classify by

USAGE SUMMARY

'classify by' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to sort information or objects into groups based on a specific characteristic. For example: "We need to classify the data by geographical region."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

On the basis of similarity networks, we could classify BY kinases into three main groups with 14 subgroups.

Genome Biology and Evolution

This is to classify by MDR classifier, to analyze possible gene-gene interactions associated with hypertension.

BioMed Research International

Why does the E.P.A. classify by interior volume?

The New York Times

Many variants remain difficult to classify by traditional genetic methods.

The American Journal of Human Genetics

Sampled 12 streams 15 times each; classify by TDS category.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

Take such objects as emeralds, which we classify by using the predicate "green".

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

This means that athletes cannot be internationally classified by classifiers from their own respective country.

The Guardian - Sport

Remaining points are classified by the trained classifier.

Plosone

"Classified by who?

The New York Times

These solid products are classified by size.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Classified By: Anne W. Patterson, for reasons 1.4(b)(d).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "classify by", ensure that the criteria for classification are clearly defined and consistently applied. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the classification is meaningful.

Common error

Avoid using subjective or poorly defined criteria when using "classify by". Always use objective, measurable attributes to ensure clarity and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "classify by" functions as a verb phrase indicating a method of categorization. It describes the action of grouping items based on a specific criterion. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "classify by" is a common and grammatically sound method for expressing categorization based on specific criteria. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a straightforward way to explain how items are organized. While "classify by" is appropriate in most contexts, it's crucial to define classification criteria clearly to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as ""categorize by"" or "sort by" can add nuance. Remember, clear criteria are key to effective classification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

categorize by

Focuses on the action of putting things into categories, similar to classifying.

group by

Emphasizes the act of forming groups based on shared characteristics.

sort by

Highlights the arrangement of items into a specific order or sequence, usually based on a particular attribute.

arrange by

Suggests a structured organization based on defined criteria.

organize by

Indicates a systematic approach to structuring or arranging items.

divide by

Implies splitting items into separate groups, often based on a distinct feature.

separate by

Focuses on the act of distinguishing items into distinct sets.

rank by

Highlights the placement of items in a hierarchical order according to importance or value.

distinguish by

Emphasizes the identification of unique characteristics that set items apart.

label by

Focuses on assigning a specific designation based on an attribute or characteristic.

FAQs

How to use "classify by" in a sentence?

Use "classify by" to indicate the criteria used for categorizing items. For example, "We can "categorize by" size, color, or material depending on the application."

What can I say instead of "classify by"?

You can use alternatives like ""categorize by"", "group by", or "sort by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "classify by" or "classify according to"?

"Classify by" and "classify according to" are both correct, but "classify by" is more concise. "Classify according to" provides a slightly more formal tone.

What's the difference between "classify by" and "characterize by"?

"Classify by" is used to sort items into groups based on shared characteristics, while "characterise by" describes the prominent features or qualities that define something.