via observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "via observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is being done or learned through the act of observing. Example: "The researchers gathered data via observation of the subjects in their natural environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

NMR conditions allow for the "ligand" and "receptor" concentrations to be kept much higher, thus permitting the probing of weaker affinity interactions observed via observation of changes in amide H/N chemical shifts, NMR signal intensity, and/or increases in spectral line broadening as a function of the progressive addition of one reactant to the other.

Biochemistry

Data were collected via observation and anonymous questionnaires.

Food Control

Data pertaining to certain spatial and indoor-climatic features of these offices was collected via observation and snap-shot measurements.

Building and Environment

(I'd probably ask the camera to stop rolling for the next bit, in which I stand very close to various men in some of these stores and attempt to gauge their age and emotional disposition via observation).

The Guardian - Music

HOME acceptance scores (via observation of parent and child in home setting) significantly contributed to children's compliance levels but did not significantly contribute to their internalization.

Children and Youth Services Review

NMR spectroscopy is a potent method for identifying solvent-accessible residues in proteins via observation of polarization transfer between chemically exchanging side-chain protons and water protons.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

The review will indicate the need for improved solar output specification, whether via observations or models.

Advances in Space Research

Noise contaminated zero problems involve functions that cannot be evaluated directly, but only indirectly via observations.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Air quality change is generally driven by two factors: pollutant emissions and meteorology, which are difficult to distinguish via observations.

Atmospheric Environment

Sizes as large as 1 cm have been witnessed in ground tests, and comparable sizes have been estimated via observations of sub-orbital tail-off events.

Acta Astronautica

Stability constants were obtained via observations of the following equilibrium: Eu3 + + Si(OH 40 ⇌ Eu(SiO(OH 3)2 + + H+ with total silicon concentrations on the order of 0.5 mM or less.

Marine Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "via observation" when you want to emphasize that information or understanding is obtained through the act of observing, rather than through other methods like experimentation or direct questioning.

Common error

While "via observation" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider simpler alternatives like "by watching" or "by seeing" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "via observation" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the method by which something is achieved or understood. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "via observation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that specifies observation as the means of achieving a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is deemed appropriate for various contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal writing. While interchangeable alternatives like "through observation" and "by means of observation" exist, "via observation" offers a concise and clear way to indicate the method of gaining information. While acceptable in formal writing, avoid overusing it in informal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through observation

Emphasizes the process of observing as the means of achieving something, maintaining a similar level of formality.

by means of observation

Highlights the method used, adding a slightly more formal tone.

using observation

Focuses on the tool or technique employed, offering a slightly less formal alternative.

based on observation

Shifts the focus to the foundation upon which something is built, implying that observation is the primary source.

from observation

Indicates the origin of information or understanding, keeping a similar level of formality.

observational analysis

Transforms the phrase into a noun phrase, referring to a specific type of analysis.

through visual inspection

Specifies the type of observation, focusing on visual aspects.

by watching

Simplifies the phrase, making it more informal and direct.

by seeing

Similar to 'by watching', this offers an informal and straightforward alternative.

upon observing

Introduces a sense of immediacy, often used to describe actions taken directly after an observation.

FAQs

How can I use "via observation" in a sentence?

You can use "via observation" to indicate that something is learned or understood through the act of observing. For example, "The researchers gathered data "via observation" of the subjects in their natural environment."

What can I say instead of "via observation"?

You can use alternatives like "through observation", "by means of observation", or "using observation" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "via observation" formal or informal?

"Via observation" is generally considered more formal than alternatives like "by watching" or "by seeing". It's commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional writing.

Which is correct, "data collected via observation" or "data collected by observation"?

Both "data collected "via observation"" and "data collected by observation" are grammatically correct, but ""via observation"" is often preferred in formal and scientific contexts.