in the course of evolution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the course of evolution" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to the gradual changes that living things go through over a long period of time. For example, "Through in the course of evolution, various species have adapted to changing environments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But nature did it in the course of evolution".

The New York Times

Assume that k is the rate of substitution of neutral alleles per unit time in the course of evolution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the course of evolution the duration of gestation has become adapted to the needs of the species.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the course of evolution, animals have developed a variety of sense organs that respond to mechanical stimuli.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is possible, Dr. Passamaneck said, that in the course of evolution, our own eyes started out as swimming eyeballs.

The New York Times - Science

The two are originally separate, but in the course of evolution purusha mistakenly identifies itself with aspects of prakriti.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If, in the course of evolution, human beings really had practiced Hobbes's "war of all against all," our species would not have survived.

The New York Times

In the course of evolution this basic body plan has been modified repeatedly into the many varieties of fish shapes that exist today.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The term display has been restricted by some authorities to social signals that not only convey information but that, in the course of evolution, have also become "ritualized".

Encyclopedia Britannica

In amphipods the gills are usually simple sacs or plates, which in the course of evolution have migrated to the inner side of the legs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the course of evolution, certain animal groups have modified this critical stage of embryonic development, and these modifications have undoubtedly contributed to the successful continuation of species.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing evolutionary changes, ensure that "in the course of evolution" is followed by a clear description of what is changing or adapting. This provides context and makes your writing more informative.

Common error

While versatile, avoid using "in the course of evolution" in contexts unrelated to biological or historical evolution. Using it too broadly can dilute its specific meaning and create confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the course of evolution" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate when or under what circumstances certain changes or developments occur within the context of evolutionary processes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

69%

Encyclopedias

17%

News & Media

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the course of evolution" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, serving primarily as an adverbial phrase to contextualize events within evolutionary timeframes. Its usage is heavily concentrated in scientific and encyclopedic sources, denoting a formal register. When using the phrase, clarity is key, ensuring the context of evolutionary change is clearly articulated. Be mindful of avoiding overuse in unrelated contexts. Numerous authoritative sources employ the phrase, reinforcing its credibility and widespread acceptance in academic and scientific discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during evolution

This alternative shortens the phrase while retaining the core meaning, focusing directly on the evolutionary period.

over evolutionary time

This alternative emphasizes the extensive duration involved in evolutionary processes.

through the evolutionary process

This phrase highlights evolution as an active process rather than a passive timeline.

in evolutionary history

This alternative emphasizes the historical aspect of evolutionary development.

as evolution progressed

This version uses a verb-driven structure, focusing on the forward movement of evolution.

with the passage of evolution

This alternative emphasizes the continuous progression and unfolding of evolutionary changes.

during the evolutionary trajectory

It uses a more technical term, trajectory, to refer to the path of evolution.

in the unfolding of evolution

This evokes a sense of gradual revelation or development.

through eons of evolving

Highlights the vast timescales involved in evolution, focusing on the continuous evolving.

as species transformed

This alternative emphasizes the transformation aspect of evolution.

FAQs

How can I use "in the course of evolution" in a sentence?

You can use "in the course of evolution" to describe how species adapt over long periods. For example, "In the course of evolution, animals have developed diverse mechanisms for survival."

What are some alternatives to "in the course of evolution"?

Alternatives include "during evolution", "over evolutionary time", or "through the evolutionary process", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "during the course of evolution" instead of "in the course of evolution"?

Both "in the course of evolution" and "during the course of evolution" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What is the difference between "evolution" and "in the course of evolution"?

"Evolution" refers to the process of gradual change in living organisms over generations. "In the course of evolution" specifies a timeframe or context within which these changes occur.