mechanisms by which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mechanisms by which" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to refer to the ways, means, or methods by which something is done or can be done. For example: "Scientists are studying the mechanisms by which plants use light energy to photosynthesize."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The pride he took in the mechanisms by which he supported his household.

The Guardian - Opinion

Understanding the mechanisms by which cyanide is lost during processing led to safer flour.

The Guardian

The biological mechanisms by which these remedies may work are unknown.

The New York Times

I didn't have an understanding of the mechanisms by which this world fits together".

The New Yorker

"What are the main mechanisms by which a country like Britain or France or Japan remembers?

The Guardian - Books

Since then, scientists have traced many of the minute mechanisms by which cells commit suicide.

The New York Times - Science

There are several logical mechanisms by which this could occur.

The New York Times

There are several mechanisms by which this takes place.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These are essential to understand social processes, cultural factors and the mechanisms by which relationships uncovered by statistical analysis work.

The Guardian

In particular we can imagine increasingly plausible natural mechanisms by which our universe came into existence from non-existence.

The Guardian

One idea is to collaborate in determining the mechanisms by which tumor cells are formed and grow.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mechanisms by which", ensure that the sentence clearly defines what is being achieved through these mechanisms. Be specific about the cause-and-effect relationship.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when describing the "mechanisms by which" something occurs. Active voice makes the sentence more direct and easier to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mechanisms by which" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a description of a process, method, or system. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly specifies how something is achieved, often in a scientific or technical context. Its function is to elaborate on the workings of a specific process or system.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mechanisms by which" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, employed to elucidate the processes or systems that facilitate particular outcomes. Predominantly found in scientific and news media contexts, it serves to inform and analyze underlying processes. While alternatives such as "ways in which" and "means by which" exist, "mechanisms by which" is most appropriate when emphasizing complexity and specificity. Remember to use active voice to maintain clarity and directness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ways in which

A more general and commonly used alternative, applicable in a wider range of contexts.

means by which

Emphasizes the resources or methods used to achieve a particular outcome.

methods by which

Highlights the specific procedures or techniques employed.

processes through which

Focuses on the series of actions or steps involved, rather than the underlying system.

the manner in which

Refers to the style or approach taken to accomplish something.

procedures through which

Focuses on the series of actions conducted in a specific order or manner.

systems through which

Focuses on organized sets of components or procedures enabling certain functionalities.

the methodology through which

Highlights the systematic and theoretical analysis of the methods applied.

channels through which

Implies a pathway or medium through which something is conveyed or achieved.

the route through which

Emphasizes the path or course taken to achieve a specific outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "mechanisms by which" to describe the specific processes or systems that cause a particular result. For example: "Scientists are investigating the "mechanisms by which" certain genes influence disease development".

What are some alternatives to using "mechanisms by which"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "ways in which", "means by which", or "processes through which" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "how" or "mechanisms by which"?

Using "how" is generally simpler and more direct. However, ""mechanisms by which"" is more appropriate when you want to emphasize the complexity or the specific processes involved.

What's the difference between "mechanisms by which" and "reasons why"?

"Mechanisms by which" refers to the specific processes or systems that cause something to happen. "Reasons why" refers to the motivations or explanations behind an event or decision. The former is about process, the latter about cause.