by the numbers

ADVERB

according to rule

Synonyms

WEAK

according to Hoyle according to the highest authority by the book gospel in a systematic manner indisputable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Robby knows that next to nothing at The Pitt goes by the numbers.

From Salon • Jan. 8, 2026

That’s because, by the numbers, Oklahoma City isn’t just as good as the ‘96 Bulls and ‘16 Warriors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

We were impressed by the numbers put up this quarter by the company.

From Barron's • Dec. 6, 2025

It was a plea that went unheeded judging by the numbers of empty seats.

From BBC • May 30, 2025

I just went through the motions, rigidly, by the numbers, without any heart or real emotion.

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien