through other means

USAGE SUMMARY

"through other means" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to alternative methods or approaches to achieve a particular goal. For example: "We are making good progress towards our goal, but we may need to consider achieving it through other means."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now we're fighting for the same goals through other means.

The Guardian

Couldn't the information be obtained through other means?

The New Yorker

So they have to be reached through other means.

The Guardian - Tech

But Russia exerts influence over its neighbors through other means.

The New York Times

Instead, they chose to pursue liberty through other means.

The New Yorker

But Democrats have blocked Republican nominees through other means.

The Washington Post

Now exiled in Rwanda, Barankitse tries to promote her vision through other means.

The Guardian

Internet pollsters obtain their samples through other means, without the theoretical benefits of random sampling.

The New York Times

Contemporary artists achieve the effects of great painting most convincingly through other means than painting.

The Guardian - Arts

Instead, the Board of Regents said, the university will seek to promote diversity through other means.

The New York Times

But the power of the Rajapaksas is bolstered through other means too.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "through other means", ensure the context clearly indicates what the primary or initially intended means were. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "through other means" without establishing what the initial or expected method was. Without this context, the phrase becomes vague and lacks impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through other means" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the method or manner by which an action is performed, suggesting an alternative approach when the standard or expected method is not used. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "through other means" serves as a versatile tool for indicating that an alternative approach is being taken. It's grammatically sound, widely accepted, and frequently used across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that its purpose is to specify an alternate method of achieving a goal, highlighting the substitution of a different approach. When using this phrase, ensure the primary method is clearly stated for clarity. As demonstrated by the examples analyzed, its register is neutral, making it suitable for formal, professional, and informal communications alike.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by alternative methods

Replaces "means" with the more specific "methods", implying a structured approach.

via different avenues

Substitutes "means" with "avenues", suggesting different routes or pathways.

using alternate routes

Emphasizes a change in direction or procedure to achieve a goal.

by employing diverse strategies

Highlights the use of varied techniques to reach a specific outcome.

with varied approaches

Focuses on a change in perspective and attitude.

through unconventional channels

Suggests using methods that are not standard or typical.

by indirect pathways

Implies a less direct or obvious route.

utilizing other resources

Focuses on using different assets or support.

by leveraging different tools

Emphasizes the use of different implements or instruments.

via innovative tactics

Highlights creative and new ways of achieving something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "through other means" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can replace "through other means" with phrases like "by alternative methods" or "via different avenues", which lend a more structured and professional tone.

Is it correct to say "through other mean" instead of "through other means"?

No, it is incorrect. "Means" is the plural form used to indicate methods or ways. The correct phrase is "through other means."

What does "accomplishing something through other means" imply?

It implies that the initial or expected method was either not possible or not preferred, and an alternative approach was used to achieve the same objective.

How does "through other means" differ from "by any means necessary"?

"Through other means" suggests a change in method without necessarily implying desperation or urgency. On the other hand, "by any means necessary" indicates a willingness to use any available method, often implying a sense of urgency or desperation.