the only way to stop vs the only way of stopping

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'The only way to stop' is used when referring to the method or action needed to stop something, while 'the only way of stopping' is used when referring to the process or means by which something is stopped.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 698 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"the only way to stop"

This phrase is used when referring to the method or action needed to stop something.

Examples:

The only way to stop the leak is to shut off the water supply.
The only way to stop the spread of the virus is through vaccination.

Show examples from the web [+]

That's the only way to stop the virus and save Caitlin.
But this is the only way to stop SkyNet for good.
And the only way to stop it from happening was by releasing a huge amount of energy.
It's the only way to stop Liam from hurting anybody else, including the Ellingsworths.
It's the only way to stop Mr. Gray assuming we can catch him.
I know the only way to stop the fury is to pay its price.
Decapitation is the only way to stop the demon.
It's the only way to stop what's going on between you and him.
Isaac wanted the medallion - power of a thousand witches, the only way to stop a witch hunter attack on dark magic.
I think the only way to stop this is to not play.
Clark... That girl said the only way to stop brainiac Is to kill his host.
Both the mexican government and the cia believe catching him Is the only way to stop A complete destabilization of the country.
But the only way to stop this 2C-9 coming into the country is if we get Caine off the street, and fast.
I fear that the only way to stop those possessed by the spirits of the book is through the act of bodily dismemberment.
As I've explained, the only way to stop the evil from being created is to reverse the effect of the astrolabe.
Sorry, Connie, but it's the only way to stop the apocalypse.
Today, I voted for the amendments in the Cercas report since I believe it is the only way to stop the Council's proposal for a directive on the organisation of working time.
It seems that the only way to stop the teacher is to defeat Kakashi Hiroko!
Parade or no parade, the only way to stop this killer is to catch him.
We weighed his offer and decided the only way to stop these attacks and discover why Milos was so eager for my demise was to let him actually think Dima had succeeded in killing me.

Alternatives:

the only method to stop
the only means to stop
the only way to prevent
the only way to halt
the only way to end

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"the only way of stopping"

This phrase is used when referring to the process or means by which something is stopped.

Examples:

The only way of stopping the car was to apply the brakes.
The only way of stopping the fire from spreading was to use a fire extinguisher.

Show examples from the web [+]

It was the only way of stopping them attacking our property.
It's the only way of stopping Hetocumtek escaping!
It's the only way to focus on stopping Liam.
Sterilization was the only way of breaking that cycle.
That was the only way of avoiding discrimination between producers.
Consumers can easily imagine that the only way of preventing unjustified price increases is through sufficient competition.
Vetoes need not be the only way of directing attention to important issues.
Job creation is the only way of preventing young Europeans wasting their opportunities and talents.
That is the only way of building the confidence required for accession.
It is the only way of giving back dignity to everyone.
This approach is the only way of putting in place clear and stable general legal rules.
According to Richardson, apart from sparing use, recovery is the only way of countering the impending shortage.
Such a proposal is the only way of resolving this crisis.
The groups have agreed that this is the only way of exerting any influence.
The European oil pollution compensation fund is not the only way of solving problems.
Controlling illegal immigration is the only way of ensuring that the Schengen agreements are applied satisfactorily.
That is the only way of meeting the challenges of creating stable jobs in competitive sectors worldwide.
This is the only way of preventing new crises and overcoming the present one.
The only way of achieving that is voluntary, temporary grubbing-up rather than permanent abandonment.
If it's the only way of getting the intelligence I need...

Alternatives:

the only method of stopping
the only means of stopping
the only way to halt
the only way to end
the only way to prevent

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

the only way to stop vs the only way of stopping