only by that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only by that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something can be achieved or understood solely through a specific means or method. Example: "You can achieve success only by that approach, which emphasizes hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The passion on the pitch is bettered only by that found in the stands, where fans come together to support their team both vocally and physically.

The Guardian - Sport

Everything is connected only by that".

The New York Times

They built a library excelled only by that at Alexandria.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Turgeon said he felt lucky to be down only by that much at halftime.

The Washington Post

Shandong is China's second most populous province, its population exceeded only by that of Henan.

Britannica

Outside Europe, support for the domestic league is surpassed only by that of Brazil.

The Guardian - Sport

Parker Bowles's gonzo spirit is matched only by that of his publisher.

The New York Times - Books

And, in the case of top secret tactical commands, can be heard only by that person.

The Guardian - Sport

The suddenness of Simpson's arrival was matched only by that of his departure.

The Guardian

By that standard, but only by that standard, the governor of Alaska did well.

The New York Times

By that standard, if only by that standard, Alito probably said enough.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only by that" to clearly and concisely specify the singular condition or method necessary to achieve a particular outcome. Avoid ambiguity by ensuring the 'that' refers to a specific and easily identifiable element in the preceding context.

Common error

Ensure that the "that" in "only by that" has a clear and unambiguous antecedent in the sentence. Vague references can confuse the reader and weaken the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only by that" functions as a restrictive modifier, limiting the means or conditions by which something can be achieved or understood. It highlights the exclusive nature of a specific method or approach. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only by that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to emphasize a singular, determining factor or condition. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, it is most commonly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science texts, demonstrating its broad applicability. When employing "only by that", ensure that the reference is clear to avoid ambiguity and strengthen the intended message. Alternatives such as "solely through that" or "exclusively by that" can provide nuanced variations in meaning while maintaining the core concept of exclusivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solely through that

Emphasizes the exclusive means or method.

exclusively by that

Highlights the absence of other contributing factors.

entirely by that

Indicates completeness and lack of external influences.

purely by that

Suggests an unadulterated or unmixed cause.

solely in that manner

Highlights the manner with greater emphasis on exclusivity.

exclusively in that way

Similar to 'only in that way', but stresses the uniqueness.

just by that

Implies simplicity or directness in the means.

merely by that

Downplays the significance of the action, suggesting it is surprisingly effective.

simply by that

Similar to 'just by that', but can also convey ease.

only in that way

Shifts the focus to the manner or process involved.

FAQs

How can I use "only by that" in a sentence?

Use "only by that" to emphasize that a specific action, method, or condition is the sole means to achieve a particular result. For example, "Success is achievable "only by that" focused dedication".

What phrases are similar to "only by that"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "solely through that", "exclusively by that", or "just by that", all of which emphasize a single, determining factor.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "only by that"?

While less common, it can be grammatically correct to start a sentence with "only by that" for emphasis, often followed by an inversion of the subject and verb. However, ensure clarity and flow in your writing.

What's the difference between "only by that" and "just by that"?

"Only by that" tends to convey a stronger sense of exclusivity or conditionality, suggesting that no other means is possible, whereas "just by that" might imply simplicity or ease in achieving the outcome.