Sure! Let's break down the phrase "by artificial means" in a way that's easy to understand.
Definition:
"By artificial means" refers to doing something in a way that is not natural. Instead of using natural processes or methods, something is created or changed using human-made tools or technology.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "by artificial means" when talking about ways to achieve a result that wouldn’t happen on its own. It’s often used in contexts like science, technology, and medicine.
Example:
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced discussions, you might encounter this phrase in fields like genetics, where scientists create organisms using artificial means, or in environmental science, where ecosystems are altered through human actions.
Word Variants:
Artificial (adjective): Describes something that is made by humans and not occurring naturally. For example, "artificial intelligence" or "artificial flavors."
Artificiality (noun): The quality of being artificial; not natural. For example, "The artificiality of the decorations made the event feel less genuine."
Different Meanings:
While "artificial" generally refers to something that is not natural, it can also have a neutral or positive connotation in some contexts, like "artificial limbs" or "artificial lighting," which can improve quality of life.
Synonyms:
Some synonyms include: - Synthetic - Man-made - Constructed - Fabricated
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Put on a façade": To create a false appearance or impression, similar to how something artificial might not show its true nature.
"Artificial sweeteners": Substances used to sweeten food and drinks without sugar, a common example of using artificial means.
Summary:
Overall, "by artificial means" means using human-made methods instead of natural ones.