instruments by which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instruments by which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to tools or methods that facilitate a particular action or process. Example: "The researchers developed several instruments by which they could measure the impact of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Those are the instruments by which we operate".

The New Yorker

Treaties, however, are not the only instruments by which international agreements are concluded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ron Carlson, a beautiful short-story writer and novelist, said that "details are the instruments by which we steer".

The New Yorker

The pilot also has an array of instruments by which to check the condition of flight, the engine, and other systems and equipment.

Britannica

He worked as a hedge-fund analyst at Fortress Investment Group before moving on to fine instruments, by which he has been obsessed since childhood.

The New Yorker

Covenants have rarely been the actual instruments by which societies actually functioned for long, but they are extremely frequent as ideological foundations for sociopolitical legitimacy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It is the instrument by which the past asserts its right over the present.

The Guardian - Arts

A lady in a sparkly dress claims to be the instrument by which Maria Callas now sings.

The Guardian

The instrument by which Keogh is alleged to have been damaged are rates approved by the Commission.

Cornell University

It is a 360-degree evaluation instrument by which bosses, peers, direct reports, clients, and sometimes even family members assess a leader according to seven social intelligence qualities.

Harvard Business Review

Proxy, a term denoting either a person who is authorized to stand in place of another or the legal instrument by which the authority is conferred.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instruments by which" when you want to emphasize the specific tools or methods employed to achieve a particular outcome, especially in formal or technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "instruments by which" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "how" or "through which" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instruments by which" functions as a prepositional phrase, introducing the means or tools utilized to accomplish something. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves to specify the mechanisms facilitating an action or process. The examples showcase how it connects a subject with the methods used to achieve a particular outcome.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instruments by which" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote the tools, methods, or means by which something is achieved. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is most appropriate in formal writing, such as academic papers, technical reports, and news articles, rather than casual conversation. While phrases like "means by which" and "tools by which" serve as good alternatives, the choice depends largely on the context. While considered generally correct, overuse in less formal settings should be avoided for stylistic reasons. The varied examples demonstrate the versatility of the phrase across different domains, while its frequency remains relatively uncommon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

means by which

Replaces "instruments" with a more general term for method.

tools by which

Substitutes "instruments" with "tools", emphasizing a practical application.

methods through which

Replaces "instruments" with "methods" and "by which" with "through which", altering the structure slightly.

processes by which

Changes "instruments" to "processes", highlighting a series of actions.

systems by which

Replaces "instruments" with "systems", focusing on organized structures.

mechanisms by which

Substitutes "instruments" with "mechanisms", emphasizing functional parts.

devices by which

Replaces "instruments" with "devices", suggesting a more technical implementation.

ways in which

Uses a broader term, "ways", for the means of achieving something.

techniques through which

Focuses on specific procedures or techniques used.

approaches through which

Highlights the strategies used to achieve a goal.

FAQs

How can I use "instruments by which" in a sentence?

Use "instruments by which" to indicate the means or tools used to achieve a specific outcome. For example, "Treaties are the "instruments by which" international agreements are concluded."

What are some alternatives to "instruments by which"?

Alternatives include "means by which", "tools by which", or "methods through which", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "instruments by which" formal or informal?

"Instruments by which" is generally considered a formal phrase, best suited for academic, technical, or professional writing. Simpler alternatives are more appropriate for informal contexts.

What's the difference between "instruments by which" and "instrument by which"?

"Instruments by which" refers to multiple tools or methods, while "instrument by which" refers to a single tool or method. The choice depends on whether you are discussing one or more instruments.