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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
obtained by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "obtained by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that something was acquired or achieved through a particular method. For example, "Success in this exam was obtained by diligent study."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Information obtained by questionnaire method.
News & Media
The files, obtained by the A.C.L.U.
News & Media
A recent document obtained by the A.C.L.U.
News & Media
The video was obtained by the Sun.
News & Media
But a list obtained by the A.C.L.U.
News & Media
Tree topologies were obtained by ML analyses.
Science & Research
A copy was obtained by the Guardian.
News & Media
Passport photos obtained by The Washington Post.
News & Media
The product was obtained by solvent evaporation.
Science & Research
resolution, obtained by X-ray analysis.
Science & Research
Neutrophils were obtained by density gradient centrifugation.
Science & Research
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "obtained by", ensure the method or process is clearly stated to provide context and clarity to the reader. For instance, "The data was obtained by conducting a survey" is more informative than "The data was obtained".
Common error
Avoid using "obtained by" without specifying how something was obtained. Omitting the method can lead to ambiguity and weaken the statement. Instead of saying "Results were obtained", specify "Results were obtained using X-ray diffraction".
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "obtained by" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the method or means through which an action is carried out or a result is achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, providing numerous examples across diverse contexts.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
35%
Academia
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Wiki
5%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "obtained by" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to specify the method or process through which something is acquired. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use across varied contexts. From academic research to news reports, this prepositional phrase provides transparency and clarifies how results were achieved or information was accessed. While it maintains a neutral to formal register, its presence in various sources underscores its versatility. Ensure that when using "obtained by", the method is clearly stated to prevent ambiguity.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
acquired through
This alternative emphasizes the process of gaining something, similar to "obtained by".
secured via
This alternative suggests a more active or deliberate process of gaining access or possession.
achieved through
This alternative focuses on the accomplishment aspect, highlighting the effort or method used.
gained by means of
This is a more formal way of saying "obtained by", emphasizing the instrument or method used.
derived from
This alternative emphasizes the origin or source from which something is taken.
attained via
Similar to "secured via", this implies a successful effort to reach a certain state or condition.
realized through
Focuses on the manifestation or coming into being as a result of a specific process.
procured by
Similar to "obtained by", but suggests more effort was needed to get something.
generated through
Focuses on how something was created, rather than simply acquired.
accessed using
This alternative refers specifically to gaining entry or use of something through a particular tool or method.
FAQs
How can I use "obtained by" in a sentence?
Use "obtained by" to indicate the method or process through which something was acquired or achieved. For example, "The evidence was "obtained by analyzing" the crime scene".
What are some alternatives to the phrase "obtained by"?
You can use alternatives such as "acquired through", "secured via", or "achieved through" depending on the context.
Is it correct to say "the results are obtained by"?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. However, passive voice can sometimes be less direct. Consider rewriting as "We "obtained the results by"..." for a more active and engaging sentence.
What's the difference between "obtained by" and "obtained from"?
"Obtained by" refers to the method used, while "obtained from" refers to the source. For example, "Information was "obtained by surveying" residents" (method) versus "Information was "obtained from residents"" (source).
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested