Which is correct:
"by frequency" or "by a frequency"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

100% Human-Powered Editing!

by frequency

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate the rate at which something occurs or is repeated. It is often used in statistical or analytical contexts.

Examples:

  • The words are arranged by frequency of use.
  • The data is sorted by frequency of occurrence.

Alternatives:

  • according to frequency
  • based on frequency
  • in terms of frequency
  • by how often
  • by the rate of occurrence

by a frequency

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when specifying a particular frequency among many. It is less common than "by frequency" and is more specific in its reference to a single frequency.

Examples:

  • The signal is transmitted by a frequency of 2.4 GHz.
  • The device operates by a frequency of 50 Hz.

Alternatives:

  • by a specific frequency
  • by a particular frequency
  • using a frequency of
  • at a frequency of
  • with a frequency of
Both "by frequency" and "by a frequency" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "By frequency" is used when referring to the rate at which something occurs or is repeated, while "by a frequency" is used when specifying a particular frequency among many. The choice between the two depends on the specific context in which they are used.

Last updated: March 22, 2024

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!