in a fixed sequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a fixed sequence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that occurs in a specific, unchanging order or arrangement. Example: "The steps in the recipe must be followed in a fixed sequence to ensure the dish turns out correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

And, finally, certain periods of life are apportioned to their governing planets in a fixed sequence; these period governors in turn share their authority with the other planets by granting them subperiods.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This method exploits the fact that many branches operate numerous times in a fixed sequence.

Integration, the VLSI Journal

The sentences were presented in a fixed sequence, with Tika first walking towards, then around, and finally away from the object noun creature.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

The four basic symbols may be inserted as "variables" (in a fixed sequence: $, S1, S2 and a) in four positions in a rotating, revolving, quadruped scheme: In the case of the Master's discourse, this results in the following scheme: The Master (in the upper-left position of the agent) is an acknowledged, allegedly infallible, authoritative voice, as we have seen.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Each interpreter goes through each phase only once, and the phases follow in a fixed sequence.

Wikipedia

In this standard protocol, the volunteer was asked to perform five successive tasks in a fixed sequence 1.5 minute of duration each: no activity-sit still, nod head ("yes"), shake head ("no"), read aloud a standard text, stationary walk.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Let (l = (l_{k})_{k in mathbb {N}}) denote a fixed sequence of natural numbers.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Egg-laying behavior in Drosophila consists of a fixed sequence of relatively stereotyped motor patterns (Yang et al. 2008).

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

As there is a fixed sequence in the ASRT with random elements inserted (e.g. 1 R 2 R 3 R 4 R, when R represents random trials) some triplets or runs of three events occur more frequently than others.

Plosone

For a fixed sequence of stepwise increases in the respiratory rate, corresponding decreases in tidal volume to keep the alveolar minute ventilation and inspiratory flow constant were calculated according to standard formulae.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

This shape can be estimated from event related designs, even if these processes occur in a fixed temporal sequence (J. M. Ollinger, G. L. Shulman, and M. Corbetta. 2001. NeuroImage 13: 213–213).

NeuroImage

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes, especially in technical or scientific contexts, use "in a fixed sequence" to emphasize that the order of steps is crucial and must not be altered.

Common error

Avoid using "in a fixed sequence" when you want to suggest there's some flexibility or optionality in the order. Use phrases like "in a preferred order" or "typically in this sequence" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a fixed sequence" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the manner or order in which something occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, especially in scientific and technical contexts. Examples illustrate its use in describing processes where order is crucial.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

75%

Encyclopedias

8%

News & Media

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a fixed sequence" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase, particularly within scientific and technical domains. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correctness and highlights its function in emphasizing a specific, unchangeable order. It's crucial to reserve this phrase for contexts where strict adherence to sequence is essential. Alternatives like "in a set order" or "in a predetermined order" can be considered for nuanced meanings. When writing, avoid this phrase when the order is flexible. This will help ensure the meaning is conveyed precisely and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a set order

Changes "fixed sequence" to "set order", emphasizing the established nature of the arrangement.

in a predetermined order

Replaces "fixed" with "predetermined", highlighting that the sequence was decided in advance.

in a specific order

Substitutes "fixed" with "specific", indicating a particular, rather than necessarily unchanging, sequence.

in a defined sequence

Uses "defined" instead of "fixed" to show that the sequence is clearly established and known.

in a prearranged sequence

Replaces "fixed" with "prearranged", stressing the planning involved in setting up the sequence.

in a prescribed sequence

Emphasizes that the sequence is not only fixed but also mandated or required.

following a rigid sequence

Highlights the strict and unyielding nature of the sequence.

according to a set pattern

Shifts the focus from sequence to pattern, indicating a recurring arrangement.

following an established routine

Emphasizes the routine or habitual aspect of the sequence.

in a sequential manner

Rephrases to highlight the step-by-step nature of the process.

FAQs

How can I use "in a fixed sequence" in a sentence?

You can use "in a fixed sequence" to describe processes or steps that must be followed in a specific, unchanging order. For example, "The experimental steps were performed "in a fixed sequence" to ensure consistent results."

What are some alternatives to "in a fixed sequence"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in a set order", "in a predetermined order", or "in a specific order", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in a fixed sequence" or "in a specific sequence"?

Both are correct, but "in a fixed sequence" emphasizes that the order is unchangeable, while "in a specific sequence" simply indicates that a particular order is followed, without necessarily implying rigidity.

What does "in a fixed sequence" imply about the process being described?

It implies that the order of steps or events is critical to the process and must be followed precisely. Deviating from the sequence may lead to incorrect or undesirable outcomes.