is how

USAGE SUMMARY

"is how" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a clause that explains or describes the manner or way in which something is done or happens. Example: "The key to success is how you approach challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Question is, how bent?

The New York Times

What worries them is how.

The Economist

"This is how we roll.

The New York Times

Here is how you score.

The New York Times

"The question is how long.

The New Yorker

"That is how we work.

Independent

Form is how memory works.

The New Yorker

The question is, how similar?

The Economist

This is how it's done".

The New Yorker

"This is how battles go.

The New York Times

This is how we talk.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is how" to clearly explain a process, method, or state, ensuring that the explanation is easily understandable within the given context. It's best used when you want to define the specific way something happens or is done.

Common error

Avoid using "is how" in overly complex sentences where a simpler, more direct explanation would suffice. Overcomplicating sentence structure can obscure the intended meaning and make the explanation less effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is how" functions as a connector and descriptor, primarily used to introduce an explanation of a method, process, or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is standard in written English. Examples from Ludwig show it clarifying actions or processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is how" serves as a key tool for explaining processes and methods across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. As seen from Ludwig's examples, this phrase is frequently used in news articles, formal business documents, and even on wikis to provide clarity. When writing with "is how", focus on providing clear and understandable explanations. While versatile, it should be used thoughtfully to avoid overcomplicating sentences. By understanding its function and applying it judiciously, you can effectively enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shows the way

A more direct and simpler alternative.

represents the way

Focuses on representation rather than direct explanation.

illustrates the process

Highlights the procedural aspect of the explanation.

constitutes the manner

Emphasizes the method or procedure involved.

demonstrates the method

Stresses the practical application and showing of a method.

defines the approach

Focuses on the specific strategy or technique.

details the procedure

Offers a more in-depth look at the sequence of actions.

indicates the means

Highlights the instruments or resources used.

explains the mechanism

Centers on the inner workings or system.

unveils the technique

Suggests a reveal or discovery of a specific method.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "is how" in a sentence?

Use "is how" to introduce an explanation of a method, process, or state. For example, "The key to success "is how" you handle challenges" clearly defines the approach to success.

What are some alternatives to using "is how" in my writing?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "shows the way", "illustrates the process", or "defines the approach". Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance in explaining a method or process.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "is how"?

While grammatically correct to include "is how" in a sentence, starting a sentence directly with "is how" is less common. It's typically used within a clause that explains something. For example, "This "is how" it works".

How does "is how" differ from "that's how"?

"Is how" is generally used in more formal or explanatory contexts to describe a process or method. "That's how" is more conversational and often used to confirm or acknowledge something. For example, "This "is how" the system operates", versus "That's how we do it here".