through various means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through various means" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to specify the different ways you achieved a certain goal or objective. For example, "I was able to improve my grades this semester through various means, such as studying more and attending extra tutoring sessions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Thomas Struth's large color photographs succeed as art through various means.

The New York Times

2. Propaganda, whether used to benefit or damage, can be spread through various means.

The New York Times

If legal barriers fall, scientists will want to explore high-quality cannabinoids produced through various means.

Nature

Across eight studies, we activated a busy mindset through various means.

Harvard Business Review

We recommend that employers promote the occupational health of their staff through various means and evaluate outcomes periodically.

The Guardian

State supreme courts, generally the final word on questions of state law, are filled through various means across the country.

The Guardian

Account of housing campaign, through various means of direct action, & politics, especially during the 1961 mayorality contest when Repub.

The New Yorker

Since then an additional 190,000 people have, through various means, added themselves to the Labour leadership electorate.

The Guardian

When the militants attacked the U.S. Embassy on Nov. 4, the six managed, through various means, to avoidbeing captured.

The Washington Post

And, determined to develop its nuclear-energy option, Iran would acquire components through various means and from many sources.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Bicycling is experiencing a sort of renaissance and are quickly reaching new users through various means including bike sharing.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider whether "through various means" is the most precise phrase. Sometimes, a more specific term like "methods", "strategies", or "approaches" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "through various means" as a filler phrase without providing any real detail. If you cannot specify the means, consider revising your sentence to be more direct or focusing on the outcome instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through various means" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the way in which an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig confirms the validity of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "through various means" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is achieved using different methods or approaches. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across various domains, including news, science, and academia. While common, remember that providing specific examples is more informative than relying on this phrase alone. When seeking alternatives, options like "by different methods" or "using multiple avenues" can offer more precision. Therefore, use "through various means" judiciously, balancing its broad applicability with the need for clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

via different methods

Focuses on the methodological aspect of achieving something.

by diverse approaches

Emphasizes the variety and range of approaches taken.

using multiple avenues

Highlights the different paths or routes employed.

through assorted channels

Suggests using a range of communication or distribution methods.

by varied techniques

Focuses specifically on the skills and procedures used.

employing different strategies

Highlights the use of planned methods to achieve a goal.

with a range of instruments

Focuses on instruments that help in reaching an aim.

utilizing diverse resources

Stresses the use of various available assets.

by means of different procedures

Emphasizes formal processes and steps taken.

through a variety of actions

Highlights the range of activities undertaken.

FAQs

How can I use "through various means" in a sentence?

The phrase "through various means" indicates that something is achieved using different methods or approaches. For example, "The company increased its profits "through various means", including cost-cutting measures and new marketing strategies."

What are some alternatives to "through various means"?

Some alternatives include "by different methods", "using multiple avenues", or "via different channels". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to be specific instead of using "through various means"?

In many cases, being specific is preferable. While "through various means" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes be vague. Providing concrete examples of the methods used makes your writing clearer and more informative.

What is the difference between "through various means" and "by any means necessary"?

"Through various means" suggests a range of acceptable methods, while "by any means necessary" implies a willingness to use any method, ethical or not, to achieve a goal. They have very different connotations.