outlined by

USAGE SUMMARY

"outlined by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean "specified, described, or indicated by" something. For example, "The parameters of the project were outlined by the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As though outlined by a trembling hand.

The Guardian - Books

Other stretches are outlined by snaking rivers.

The New York Times

The ABC's many manifest failures are outlined by Jones.

The Guardian

Volunteers will push the message outlined by A.F.L.-C.I.O.

The New York Times

What are the seven basic plots, outlined by Christopher Booker?

The New York Times

— The scheme, as outlined by federal prosecutors, was audacious.

The New York Times

That's a sobering scenario outlined by two new, provocative studies.

The Washington Post

The contour of the colony is outlined by dotted lines.

Nature

Nonetheless, he did achieve the key objectives outlined by Hamilton.

Columbia University

Results were outlined by Bernd Kromer of Heidelberg (Ger).

Encyclopedia Britannica

As outlined by the secretary over the phone.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outlined by" when you want to indicate that something is clearly defined or described by specific elements, boundaries, or instructions. For instance, "The project scope is outlined by the contract agreement."

Common error

While "outlined by" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "shown by" or "described in" may be more appropriate in casual contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outlined by" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating the source or method of definition, description, or limitation. It connects a subject to the entity that provides its outline. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outlined by" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that means something is defined, described, or limited by a specific source or method. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness. Its usage spans across various contexts, including science, news media, and academia, reflecting its versatility. While simpler alternatives may suit informal contexts, "outlined by" effectively provides clarity and precision in professional and academic writing. Related phrases like "defined by" and "delineated by" offer similar meanings but with nuanced differences. Common errors involve overuse in casual settings. Therefore, understanding its appropriate context enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delineated by

Replaces "outlined" with a more formal synonym, suggesting a clearer, more precise definition.

defined by

Focuses on the defining characteristics, suggesting a more fundamental relationship.

characterized by

Emphasizes the distinctive qualities, suggesting a pattern or trend.

demarcated by

Implies a clear boundary or separation, often physical or conceptual.

determined by

Highlights the causal influence, suggesting that something is a consequence of something else.

specified by

Emphasizes the explicitness of the detail or instruction.

illustrated by

Suggests the use of examples to clarify or explain.

indicated by

Implies a sign or signal rather than a detailed description.

described by

Suggests a general account of something, potentially less precise than an outline.

circumscribed by

Implies limits or boundaries are being set.

FAQs

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

Use "outlined by" to indicate that something is defined, described, or limited by something else. For instance, "The company's responsibilities are "outlined by" the service agreement".

What are some alternatives to "outlined by"?

You can use alternatives such as "defined by", "described by", or "specified by", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "outlined by" or "outlined with"?

The phrase "outlined by" is generally used to indicate a definition or description provided by something. "Outlined with" is used to describe the physical appearance of something. For example, "The shape was outlined with a pen".

What is the difference between "outlined by" and "indicated by"?

"Outlined by" suggests a more detailed or comprehensive description, while "indicated by" implies a sign or signal. "The plan is "outlined by" the document," versus "Success is "indicated by" the positive results".