PhrasesHub

By the numbers

    Definitions

      • strictly following a set of instructions or rules
        To describe a methodical or systematic approach to completing a task or achieving a goal, often in a boring or uncreative manner

      • based on concrete facts and figures
        To describe something that is accurate and precise, often referring to statistics or data-driven information

      • in a predictable or unchanging way
        To describe a situation or process that is happening in a consistent or expected manner, without any surprises or variations

      • according to a specific order or sequence
        To describe something that is being done in a specific or prescribed order, often used in reference to steps or procedures

      • in a literal or straightforward sense
        To describe something that is being done or interpreted in a literal, factual, or direct manner, without any added meaning or symbolism

    Examples of By the numbers

    • The sales team exceeded their quarterly goals by 25%, which is a remarkable performance by the numbers.

      This example demonstrates the use of the idiom "by the numbers" in a sentence that highlights numerical achievements. In this context, "by the numbers" refers to measuring success based on specific targets or goals, typically represented by numbers. The sentence also showcases the impact of using this idiom to convey a sense of quantifiable excellence.

    • Researchers analyzed the data and found that the new healthcare policy had reduced hospital readmissions by 30%, which is a significant improvement by the numbers.

      This example illustrates the use of the idiom "by the numbers" in a sentence related to statistics and numerical data. In this context, "by the numbers" suggests a rigorous and evidence-based approach to measuring positive outcomes. The sentence also underscores the importance of quantifying benefits to demonstrate the effectiveness of policies, programs, or treatments.

    • The project manager reported that the construction timeline was completed ahead of schedule by a total of 2 weeks, an impressive achievement by the numbers.

      This example exemplifies the use of the idiom "by the numbers" in a sentence that describes a time-bound milestone. In this context, "by the numbers" implies a precise and measurable track record of meeting deadlines or achieving milestones according to a predetermined calendar. The sentence also emphasizes the value of punctuality and efficiency in project management.

    • The marketing team's return on investment (ROI) for the latest campaign exceeded expectations by a staggering 50%, which is a staggering achievement by the numbers.

      This example illustrates the use of the idiom "by the numbers" in a sentence related to financial performance. In this context, "by the numbers" represents a quantitative assessment of the success or profitability of a venture, such as ROI. The sentence also highlights the significance of measuring ROI to evaluate marketing campaigns' effectiveness and optimize investments accordingly.

    • Sales for Q1 2021 increased by 15% compared to the previous year's Q1. This represents a significant jump "by the numbers."

      This idiom is used when discussing factual figures or statistics, demonstrating a notable improvement or growth in a quantifiable sense. In this example, "by the numbers" highlights the measurable and substantial boost in sales during the current quarter, compared to the same period in the previous year.

    • The patient's cholesterol levels decreased from 240 to 180 in just three months, a drastic decline "by the numbers."

      Here, "by the numbers" emphasizes the substantial and quantifiable decrease in the patient's cholesterol levels within a short time span, presenting a concrete improvement.

    • The movie grossed over $100 million worldwide "by the numbers."

      In this example, "by the numbers" acknowledges the significant and measurable earnings of the movie, which reaches a milestone of over $100 million at the box office.

    • The company reported a net loss of $15 million in Q2 2021, a fortuitous reversal from the $20 million loss reported in the previous year's Q2. This signifies an encouraging trend "by the numbers."

      This idiom is utilized when discussing statistics that indicate a positive shift or trend, presenting a quantifiable and optimistic outlook for the company's financial performance.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "by the numbers" can be used in various contexts, but all of its meanings revolve around being precise, systematic, and literal. It can be used to describe a methodical approach to completing a task, relying on concrete facts and figures, following a specific order or sequence, or being predictable and unchanging. It can also be used to emphasize a literal interpretation of something, without any added meaning or symbolism.

    Origin of "By the numbers"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to military terminology, where soldiers were required to follow specific instructions and procedures, often relying on numbers and codes to carry out their tasks. This idea of following a set of instructions in a precise and systematic manner eventually evolved into the figurative use of "by the numbers" in everyday language.

    Another theory suggests that the idiom may have originated from the world of sports, particularly in baseball, where players are expected to follow a specific sequence of steps in order to achieve a desired outcome. This idea of following a prescribed order or sequence can be seen in the use of "by the numbers" in reference to completing tasks or achieving goals.

    Overall, the origin of this idiom may have multiple influences, but they all point to the idea of precision, accuracy, and following a specific set of instructions or rules. Today, "by the numbers" is a commonly used idiom in various contexts, and its origin highlights its connection to military and sports terminology.