"applying the" vs "by applying the"

Question

"applying the" vs "by applying the"

Both "by applying the" and "applying the" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "By applying the" is used to emphasize the method or means by which something is done, while "applying the" is used to simply state the action of applying something.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to describe the action of applying something without emphasizing the method or means by which it is done.

Examples:

Applying the cream twice a day will help moisturize your skin.
I will be applying the new technique in our next project.

Alternatives:

putting on the
using the
utilizing the
employing the
putting into practice the

This phrase is used to highlight the specific method or means by which an action is carried out. It adds emphasis to the process of applying something.

Examples:

You can achieve a smooth finish by applying the paint in thin layers.
By applying the principles of physics, we were able to solve the problem efficiently.

Alternatives:

using the
through applying the
with the application of
by utilizing the
employing the

Answer 1

applying the

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to simply state the action of applying something.

Answer 2

by applying the

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize the method or means by which something is done.

"applying the" vs "by applying the"

applying the

by applying the

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