in most ways

USAGE SUMMARY

'in most ways' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is generally true or generally applicable, but not always completely true. For example: "I like my job; in most ways it's a good fit for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In most ways, it was.

The New York Times - Sports

Still a chaotic mess in most ways.

The Economist

The venture was, in most ways, doomed.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's still highly segregated in most ways".

The New York Times

In most ways, Rock had the easiest struggle.

The New Yorker

In many ways, even in most ways, it did not.

The New Yorker

In most ways, though, it's an old one.

The New York Times

Yet we marathoners remain in most ways a small tribe.

The New York Times - Sports

In most ways its commercial couldn't be less original.

The Guardian - Opinion

It looks peaceable and peaceful, and, in most ways, is.

The New York Times

We were a pretty typical suburban family in most ways.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in most ways", consider briefly addressing the exceptions to enhance clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "in most ways" as a vague hedge; ensure your statement is still meaningful and informative despite the implied exceptions. Always consider whether specifying the exceptions would strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in most ways" functions as an adverbial modifier, qualifying the extent to which a statement is true. It indicates that the statement holds true under the majority of circumstances, but not necessarily all. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in most ways" is a versatile prepositional phrase functioning as an adverbial modifier to qualify the extent to which a statement holds true. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and its frequency is very common, particularly in News & Media. When writing, it's beneficial to consider any exceptions to your statement after using this phrase. Alternatives include "for the most part", "by and large", and "generally speaking". While the phrase maintains a neutral register, its overuse can lead to vagueness. It's most effective when used judiciously to add nuance and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the most part

This alternative focuses on the predominant aspect, implying that exceptions are minor or infrequent.

by and large

This option suggests a broad generalization, covering the majority of cases or situations.

generally speaking

This phrase introduces a statement that is typically true, but not necessarily in every instance.

in general

A more concise alternative, conveying an overall assessment or condition.

on the whole

Similar to 'by and large', this emphasizes the overall picture or outcome.

mostly

A simpler, one-word substitute indicating that something is true to a great extent.

primarily

This term highlights the main or principal aspect of something.

largely

Indicates that something is mainly or extensively true.

for the greater part

This alternative underscores that the majority of something aligns with a particular description.

to a great extent

This phrase stresses the significant degree to which something is true or applicable.

FAQs

How can I use "in most ways" in a sentence?

You can use "in most ways" to qualify a statement, acknowledging that it's generally true but may have exceptions. For example, "The project was successful "in most ways", despite some minor setbacks."

What phrases are similar to "in most ways"?

Alternatives to "in most ways" include "for the most part", "by and large", and "generally speaking".

Is it always necessary to specify the exceptions when using "in most ways"?

While not always necessary, briefly mentioning or alluding to the exceptions when using "in most ways" can enhance clarity and credibility.

What is the difference between "in most ways" and "in all ways"?

"In most ways" indicates that something is generally true with some exceptions, whereas "in all ways" suggests it is true without any exceptions.