by rotation vs in rotation

Both "by rotation" and "in rotation" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "By rotation" is used to indicate something is done in a sequence or order, while "in rotation" is used to describe something moving or being used in a circular or recurring pattern.

Last updated: March 29, 2024 • 763 views

by rotation

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that something is done in a sequence or order, often in a rotating manner.

Examples:

The tasks are assigned by rotation.
The players take turns by rotation.

Show examples from the web [+]

The position of second Vice-president of the ESRB has also been created, entrusted to the President of one of the three authorities by rotation.
We have Mrs Fontaine, the Commission has Mr Prodi, the Council has a Member State government by rotation.
Notwithstanding Article 2, Member States may, for a transitional period up to 1 January 2000, maintain a system of minimum compulsory tariffs and systems of chartering by rotation, provided that:
During the transitional period referred to in Article 3, the following shall not be subject to such systems of chartering by rotation:
Those sampling points shall be inspected and sampled by rotation of 50 % of the sampling points each year.
however, samples will be taken by rotation in 50 % of the fish farms in the continental zone each year;
Within a period of two years from the entry into force of this Directive, Member States involved in systems of chartering by rotation shall take the necessary measures to enable shippers to have a free choice between three types of contract:
During the transitional period referred to in Article 3, Member States shall take the necessary steps to maximize flexibility in the systems of chartering by rotation, in particular:
Considers that holding the JPA session by rotation in EU Member States provides real added value and calls for this rotation to be continued in the future;
(c) 'competent authority' shall mean the authority appointed by the Member State to manage and organize the system of chartering by rotation;
ENISA's mandate expires half-way through next year by rotation.
The third is a director at the Commission, who is selected by rotation from a pool of people.
Mr President, as provided in the Central Bank Statute and the Treaties, we are required to replace the members of the Central Bank's Executive Board by rotation to ensure that it has some continuity in the exercise of its responsibilities.
whereas in June 2001 the presidency of the Baltic Council fell by rotation to Russia for one year; expecting therefore that the Baltic Council will make an active contribution to the creation of international cooperation with the Kaliningrad region,
Call the people by rotation.
The polishing of dehulled grain, e.g. rice, by rotation in drums resulting in a grain with a bright, shiny appearance.
- by providing that single or multiple trips offered twice consecutively under the system of chartering by rotation without finding any takers shall be taken out of that system and be freely negotiated.

Alternatives:

in sequence
in order
in turns
in rotation order
sequentially

in rotation

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to describe something moving or being used in a circular or recurring pattern, often in a rotational manner.