only a method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only a method" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is merely a technique or approach, without implying any additional significance. Example: "In the end, this is only a method to achieve our goals, not the ultimate solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Serving is only a method of putting the ball in play.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is difficult to build only a method to design a logo.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

He wants to encourage economic development in poor countries, too — if only a method can be found that avoids the dreadful phrase "social engineering".

The New York Times - Books

Terrorism is only a method; the enemy is an extremist Islamic insurgency whose appeal lies in its claim to represent the Muslim masses against a bullying superpower.

The New York Times

The Nebraska law, of course, does not directly further an interest "in the potentiality of human life" by saving the fetus in question from destruction, as it regulates only a method of performing abortion.

The New York Times

Writing on behalf of the four dissenters, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg correctly emphasized that under Justice Kennedy's holding, "the law saves not a single fetus from destruction, for it targets only a method of performing abortion".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Gauss mentioned the algorithm in his Disquisitiones Arithmeticae (published 1801), but only as a method for continued fractions.

Wikipedia

The T&R method is only a starter method.

WikiHow

Therefore, syringing not only is a method of treatment but also will help make an accurate diagnosis for canaliculitis.

BioMed Research International

One such example is the Occupy movement, which not only demonstrates a method of combatting issues, but also demonstrates the evolution of the method of protests.

University of California, Berkeley

The FETI method, however, is not only a coupling method but provides a powerful solver design.

Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "only a method", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the method is intended to achieve. This helps avoid ambiguity and emphasizes the purpose behind the technique.

Common error

Avoid presenting "only a method" as a complete or final solution. Instead, frame it as one step or tool within a larger process or strategy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only a method" functions as a qualifier or modifier, indicating that something is merely a technique or approach. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts to emphasize the limited scope or importance of a particular method.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

28%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "only a method" is grammatically correct and serves to de-emphasize the importance of a specific technique or approach. Ludwig examples demonstrate that it's used across various contexts, including science, news, and academia, with a neutral register. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is acceptable in English writing. While "only a method" may not be very common, it provides a precise way to express that something is merely a means to an end, rather than an end in itself. Alternatives include "merely a technique" or "just a process", depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely a technique

Focuses on the technique aspect, omitting the sense of purpose or function.

simply a means

Emphasizes that something is just a way to achieve a goal.

just a process

Highlights the procedural aspect, rather than the intention.

purely a strategy

Implies a more deliberate and planned approach.

solely an approach

Stresses that it's the only way being considered or used.

but a procedure

Replaces "method" with a synonym emphasizing a set of actions.

just a manner

Highlights the way something is done.

a mere tactic

Suggests the method is a smaller part of the overall process.

exclusively a system

Indicates a structured and organized set of procedures.

a basic pathway

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the method as a route or path.

FAQs

How can I use "only a method" in a sentence?

Use "only a method" to describe something as simply a technique or approach, without implying any additional significance. For example, "Serving is "only a method" of putting the ball in play."

What are some alternatives to "only a method"?

You can use alternatives like "merely a technique", "simply a means", or "just a process" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "just a method" instead of "only a method"?

Yes, "just a method" is a semantically similar alternative. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey. "Only" emphasizes exclusivity, while "just" can imply simplicity or insignificance.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "only a method"?

It's appropriate when you want to downplay the importance of a specific technique or approach by highlighting that it is not the only, or the most important, aspect of a larger process or goal.