through an agency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through an agency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or processes that are facilitated or conducted by an intermediary organization or representative. Example: "The contract was negotiated through an agency that specializes in real estate transactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Arabella had found Pilar through an agency.

The New Yorker

Through an agency, he found an apartment.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Recruiting through an agency made a big difference.

The Guardian

After nearly two years there, she's still on a temp contract through an agency.

The Guardian - Opinion

About half of vacancies are filled by locums, often sourced through an agency.

The Guardian

The New York Times has made a request through an agency spokesman to speak with him.

The New York Times

Through an agency spokesman, Ms. Nord declined to discuss her opposition to the legislation.

The New York Times

In Chile donors are meant to give money through an agency that hides their identities from the candidate.

The Economist

Each year the writer & his wife & children rent a summer house at the seashore through an agency.

The New Yorker

The easiest way to find and hire a health-care worker is through an agency, Gold says.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I am a registered hospital operating department practitioner working through an agency for a London foundation trust.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "through an agency", ensure the context clearly indicates what the agency is facilitating or providing. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "through an agency" when a more specific term would provide better clarity. For example, instead of saying "I found a job through an agency", specify "I found a job through a recruiting firm" or "employment agency".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through an agency" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the means or method by which an action is performed. Ludwig's examples clearly illustrate this, showing how various services or actions are facilitated by way of an agency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

15%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "through an agency" is a very common and grammatically sound way to describe actions or processes facilitated by an intermediary. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial phrase, specifying the means by which something is accomplished. Predominantly found in news and media, academic writing, and wiki content, its register remains generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal communication. For greater clarity, consider specifying the type of agency involved. Remember that while ""via an agency"" is a close alternative, selecting more specific vocabulary enhances precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

via an agency

Uses a different preposition to convey the same meaning.

by means of an agency

Emphasizes the agency as the instrument or method used.

with agency assistance

Highlights the assistance provided by the agency.

utilizing agency services

Focuses on the services offered by the agency.

making use of an agency

Similar to 'by means of', but less formal.

through the intermediary of an agency

More formal way of saying "through an agency".

employing an agency

Highlights the action of hiring or using an agency.

under agency auspices

Suggests the agency is providing support and guidance.

in collaboration with an agency

Emphasizes the cooperative nature of the arrangement.

channelled through an agency

Indicates that something is being directed or routed using the agency.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the sentence "I found my job through an agency"?

Consider alternatives like "I found my job "via an agency"", "I secured my position "with the help of an agency"", or "An agency connected me with my current employer" to add nuance or formality.

Is it better to say "through an agency" or "via an agency"?

Both "through an agency" and ""via an agency"" are grammatically correct and generally interchangeable. "Via" may sound slightly more formal in some contexts, but the difference is minimal.

What does it mean to obtain something "through an agency"?

Obtaining something "through an agency" means that you've used an intermediary organization or service to facilitate a transaction, find employment, secure housing, or achieve another specific goal. The agency acts as a facilitator between you and another party.

What are the advantages of using a service "through an agency" compared to independently?

Using a service "through an agency" can offer benefits such as pre-screening, background checks, contract management, and dispute resolution, providing a layer of security and professionalism that may not be available when working independently. However, this convenience often comes with additional fees.