by numbers

phrase

: in a way that follows the rules or instructions but that is not interesting or original
Dancing by numbers isn't good enough. You have to really feel the music.

Examples of by numbers in a Sentence

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The talent is off the charts, backed up by numbers and bike-handling. — Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 1 July 2026 In today’s digital landscape, success is often determined by numbers. — Jenna Guarneri, Forbes.com, 25 Feb. 2026

Rhymes for by numbers

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Browse Nearby Words

by no means
by numbers
BYO
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Cite this Entry

“By numbers.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20numbers. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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