By the numbers
adv.
In a way that strictly adheres to rules or instructions.
The team drilled by the numbers to improve their coordination.
Often appears as...
- train by the numbers
- operate by the numbers
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adv.
In a dull, unimaginative or routine manner.
He delivered the news report by the numbers, without any hint of emotion.
Often appears as...
- read by the numbers
- write by the numbers
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
adv.
In a precise, exact manner, especially by using statistics.
The market analysis was carried out by the numbers for maximum accuracy.
Often appears as...
- analyze by the numbers
- calculate by the numbers
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adv.
In a way that strictly adheres to rules or instructions.
The team drilled by the numbers to improve their coordination.
Often appears as...
- train by the numbers
- operate by the numbers
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adv.
In a dull, unimaginative or routine manner.
He delivered the news report by the numbers, without any hint of emotion.
Often appears as...
- read by the numbers
- write by the numbers
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
adv.
In a precise, exact manner, especially by using statistics.
The market analysis was carried out by the numbers for maximum accuracy.
Often appears as...
- analyze by the numbers
- calculate by the numbers
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Strict Adherence
Use to emphasize following instructions or a process without deviation.
They set up the event by the numbers, not missing a single step.
Pro Tip 2/2Precision Focus
Highlights attention to detail and a methodical approach in completing tasks.
She organized the office by the numbers, everything in its place.
Pro Tip 1/2Strict Adherence
Use to emphasize following instructions or a process without deviation.
They set up the event by the numbers, not missing a single step.
Pro Tip 2/2Precision Focus
Highlights attention to detail and a methodical approach in completing tasks.
She organized the office by the numbers, everything in its place.
Pro Tip 1/2Strict Adherence
Use to emphasize following instructions or a process without deviation.
They set up the event by the numbers, not missing a single step.
Pro Tip 2/2Precision Focus
Highlights attention to detail and a methodical approach in completing tasks.
She organized the office by the numbers, everything in its place.
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