observe by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "observe by" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning without additional context.
It could potentially be used in contexts where one is instructed to observe something through a specific method or medium. Example: "You can observe by looking through the microscope to see the details of the specimen."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We observed light scattering from individual nano-sized tracers induced by high-intensity laser light, which are difficult to observe by direct observation of tracers using optical microscope in common flow velocimetry systems.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

Though it is difficult to directly observe by TEM, since the observed image is a two-dimensional projection of the nanotubes, Figure 5d shows dense nanopores around which the Nb2O5 lattice is continuous.

Nanoscale Research Letters

To discern whether the observed asymmetries with respect to gender go beyond what we would expect to observe by chance, we compare our empirical results with those obtained from baseline graphs that are constructed as follows: Random.

EPJ Data Science

"We are in the front lines, so we observe by our eyes," she said.

The New York Times

As a class, reflect on any patterns, trends, recurring themes or significant changes that they observe by viewing the exhibition.

The New York Times

No matter where, fashion-show readying areas all seem subject to local fire-safety standards, which designers observe by posting No Smoking signs prominently above the communal ashtray.

The New York Times

"But if you look at your data often enough, sooner or later you'll observe by chance that one arm of the test looks better," says Dr Ellenberg.

The Economist

We observe, by Proposition 2.1, that (2.27).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

We observe, by and large, the presence of momentum.

Probability, Uncertainty and Quantitative Risk

Therefore, one can easily observe by applying α to the equality (3.5) with Minkowski's inequality that.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

The model helps to better understand the transient state of leaching which is difficult to observe by experimental work.

Construction and Building Materials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "observe by", ensure the method or means of observation is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, "observe by microscopy" is more precise than simply "observe by".

Common error

Avoid using "observe by" without specifying the method or instrument used for observation. This can lead to confusion and weaken the clarity of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "observe by" functions as a verb phrase combined with a preposition, specifying the means or method through which an observation is made. The Ludwig AI indicates that this phrasing, while grammatically sound, isn't always the most common or clearest choice.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

21%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "observe by" is grammatically acceptable but infrequently used, according to Ludwig. It serves to specify the means or method through which an observation is made. While technically correct, it's crucial to ensure clarity and consider more common alternatives for improved readability. Ludwig's examples suggest it appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts. When writing, be mindful of specifying the method of observation clearly. As the Ludwig AI points out, "observe by" can be improved with alternatives and greater context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notice through

Focuses on the medium through which the observation occurs.

view via

Highlights the means of visual observation.

discern through

Emphasizes using a particular method to distinguish something.

detect with

Specifies the instrument or method used for detection.

inspect using

Implies a careful examination with a specific tool.

ascertain via

Indicates finding something out through a particular channel.

determine by means of

Highlights the methodology used to reach a conclusion.

recognize through

Focuses on identifying something due to a specific factor.

perceive with the aid of

Emphasizes that perception relies on an assist

note through

Similar to 'notice through' but slightly more formal.

FAQs

How can I use "observe by" in a sentence?

Use "observe by" to indicate the method or means through which an observation is made. For example, "We can observe the cells "observe by microscopy"".

What are some alternatives to "observe by"?

Consider using phrases like "notice through", "view via", or "detect with" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "observe by"?

While grammatically sound, "observe by" is not the most common phrasing. It is better to be specific about the method of observation using alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "observe by" in writing?

Use "observe by" when you want to explicitly state the tool or method used to make an observation. For instance, "We "observe by using" a telescope" is appropriate, but simpler alternatives are often preferable.