form in which

USAGE SUMMARY

"form in which" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a particular kind of structure or arrangement. For example, one could say: "I am considering the form in which I will write my report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The form in which ideas are conveyed is important.

The New York Times

By contrast, the form in which music is downloaded is the form in which it is consumed.

The Economist

Confession has long been a form in which fiction is cast.

The Guardian - Books

Indiana, in fact, had not objected to the form in which the case was brought.

The New York Times

What I didn't anticipate, though, was the form in which that strength and encouragement would come.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a form in which absolute linguistic originality is an elusive quarry.

The Guardian - Opinion

Bacteria can form spores, a tough, hunkered down form in which most metabolism stops.

The New York Times

"Then along came Kathy's story, and a form in which this theme had not been done".

The Guardian

What is different, on "Where Should We Begin?," is the form in which they are addressed.

The New Yorker

It's a form in which one can make something, and I like to make things".

The New Yorker

And that's the form in which Farrell has given it back to us: unapologetic, unassuaged.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "form in which", ensure that the noun following "in which" clearly specifies what is being structured or arranged. This will improve clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "form in which" in simple sentences where a more direct phrasing would suffice. For instance, instead of "The form in which the data was presented was confusing", try "The data presentation was confusing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "form in which" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a relative clause. It typically modifies a noun, specifying the arrangement, structure, or method related to that noun. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples where "form in which" clarifies the state or configuration of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "form in which" is a versatile phrase used to specify the structure, method, or arrangement of something. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While it maintains a neutral to formal register, it's crucial to avoid overuse in simple sentences where more direct phrasing would suffice. "Form in which" is commonly found in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manner in which

This alternative replaces "form" with "manner", emphasizing the way something is done or happens.

way in which

This substitutes "form" with "way", focusing on the method or process involved.

arrangement under which

This uses "arrangement" instead of "form", emphasizing the layout or organization.

fashion in which

Synonymous with "manner", this phrase offers a slightly more stylized alternative to "form".

structure under which

This alternative highlights the organizational framework or system in place, shifting the focus to structure.

system by which

Focuses on the systematic aspect, replacing "form" with "system" to emphasize order and process.

format according to which

This alternative shifts the sentence construction to emphasize "format" and adds "according to."

shape by which

Replacing "form" with "shape", this option emphasizes the physical or conceptual outline.

style according to which

The term "style" is used here to denote a particular way of doing something, placing the emphasis on design or aesthetic.

mode through which

Emphasizes the means or vehicle by which something occurs, replacing "form" with "mode."

FAQs

How can I use "form in which" in a sentence?

Use "form in which" to describe the structure, method, or arrangement of something, like "The "form in which" data is stored affects retrieval speed".

What is an alternative to "form in which"?

Alternatives include "manner in which", "way in which", or "the "structure under which" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "the way in which" or "form in which"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "way in which" is generally more common and less formal than "form in which". The "form in which" might be preferred in more technical or academic contexts.

What does "the "form in which"" mean?

It refers to the specific arrangement, structure, or method something takes. For example, "Consider the "form in which" the information is presented."