in virtue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in virtue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is done based on a particular quality or principle, often in a moral or ethical context. Example: "She was awarded the scholarship in virtue of her outstanding academic achievements."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A supervenience claim does not automatically entail an "in virtue of" claim (McLaughlin 1995).

SEP

Through their infidelities he instructs in virtue.

The Guardian - Books

Yet they may be succeeding as seminars in virtue ethics.

The New Yorker

"He believed in virtue by association, not guilt by association".

The New York Times

In virtue of what, precisely, would you distinguish them aesthetically?

The New York Times

In short, if you don't eat clean you are lacking in virtue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Doshi acidly called them "pure imitation," quick to be erected but lacking in "virtue".

The New Yorker

In "Virtue Exam," for instance, a detained woman thinks, "Their voices blister my skin, / Denied.

The New Yorker

Yet these are the very features in virtue of which the film would lose protection?

The Economist

Space denotes the property in virtue of which rigid bodies can occupy different positions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In virtue of this feature, the form (3) is termed a valid inference form.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in virtue", ensure that the connection between the quality and the resulting action or state is clear to the reader. A poorly defined relationship can make the sentence confusing.

Common error

Avoid using "in virtue" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly pretentious and out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "because of" or "due to" in such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in virtue" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a reason or cause. It indicates that something is the result or consequence of a specific quality, characteristic, or condition. Ludwig highlights examples from academic and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

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 "in virtue" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is a consequence or result of a specific quality or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly found in academic and scientific writing, lending a formal and precise tone to the text. While "in virtue" effectively explains the basis for a statement or event, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse in informal settings, where simpler alternatives like "because of" or "due to" may be more appropriate. Remember that "in virtue of" is interchangeable with "by virtue of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by reason of

Indicates a cause or justification, similar to "in virtue", but can sound more formal.

on account of

Highlights the reason or explanation for something, often used to justify an action or situation.

owing to

A more formal way of saying "because of" or "due to".

by means of

Focuses on the method or instrument used to achieve something, rather than the inherent quality or reason.

because of

A more common and direct way to express causality, less formal than "in virtue".

due to

Similar to "because of", but slightly more formal and often used for negative consequences.

as a result of

Emphasizes the consequence of a preceding action or event.

by dint of

Highlights effort or hard work as the reason for success.

thanks to

Implies a positive outcome resulting from a specific cause.

in light of

Suggests that something is done or considered based on new information or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "in virtue" in a sentence?

Use "in virtue" to show that something is a consequence of a particular quality or characteristic. For instance, "She was selected for the team "in virtue of" her exceptional skills."

What's a simple substitute for "in virtue"?

Alternatives to "in virtue" include "because of", "due to", or "by reason of", depending on the level of formality required.

Is "in virtue of" interchangeable with "by virtue of"?

Yes, "in virtue of" and "by virtue of" are often used interchangeably. Both phrases mean "because of" or "on the basis of". However, "by virtue of" is slightly more common.

When is it appropriate to use "in virtue" in writing?

"In virtue" is suitable for formal writing, philosophical discussions, or academic papers where a precise and somewhat elevated tone is desired. Avoid it in casual or informal contexts.