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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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means applied

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "means applied" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to refer to methods or techniques that have been utilized, but it lacks clarity and context. Example: "The means applied in this study were not effective in achieving the desired results."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He captures perfectly his mix of rationality and madness – the sense of logical means applied to deranged ends.

The use of the last span segments to reinforce the critical sections during launching replaces other conventional temporary means applied nowadays.

The results presented show that significant progress has been made towards controlling structurally radiated noise by active/adaptive means applied directly to the structure.

Such qualities shrivelled in the heat of Chelsea's effort, inevitably, because what we saw here was not merely a division of class but another concept, and another set of means, applied to the question of how you play the game.

News & Media

Independent

This way, we may seek to explore alternative approaches to audio identification by making recourse to mature technical means applied in computer vision.

The article points out the insufficiency of traditional measuring means applied for large-scale landslide monitoring and proposes the method for extensive landslide displacement field monitoring using high-resolution remote images.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

It means applying concepts scientifically to better understand patients.

That means applying TQM and reengineering processes to this function.

But wisdom also means applying that knowledge to the real world.

It means applying the laws that currently exist and an appetite to investigate," he said.

News & Media

Independent

In general, it means applying to the public sector ideas and techniques from private-sector management.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing how something was done, focus on action verbs to convey a more active and direct description of the process.

Common error

Avoid using "means applied" in formal writing. This phrase is often too vague. Instead, specify exactly what methods, techniques, or resources were used. For example, instead of "The means applied were ineffective", write "The techniques employed proved ineffective" or "The methods used did not yield the desired results".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

84%

Authority and reliability

3.2/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "means applied" functions as a nominal phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. However, its grammatical role is often overshadowed by its semantic vagueness. Ludwig AI points out that this phrase is not always the best choice for clarity in writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "means applied" appears in various contexts, it is often less precise and can benefit from being replaced with clearer alternatives such as "methods used" or "techniques employed". Ludwig AI suggests that its grammatical status is questionable, and the frequency of its use is relatively uncommon. Its communicative purpose is to indicate the use of certain resources or techniques, but its vagueness calls for caution in formal settings. Opting for more specific language improves clarity and strengthens writing.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "means applied" that provide more clarity?

Instead of "means applied", consider using more specific phrases such as "methods used", "techniques employed", or "resources utilized", depending on the context.

Is "means applied" grammatically correct in formal writing?

While "means applied" may appear in some sources, it's often considered less precise than alternatives like "approaches taken" or "strategies executed". For formal writing, it's advisable to opt for these clearer options.

How can I use more active language instead of "means applied"?

Focus on action verbs to describe the process. Instead of "The means applied were...", try "We implemented the following procedures..." or "The team utilized these resources..." This makes your writing more direct and engaging.

What is the difference between "methods used" and "means applied"?

"Methods used" is a more direct and commonly accepted way of describing the processes employed in a particular situation. "Means applied" is less common and can sound vague. Using "methods used" improves clarity and professionalism.

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Source & Trust

84%

Authority and reliability

3.2/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: