1
Reason from status
Explain an outcome through a role or position.
Example
By virtue of her office, the chair may cast the deciding vote.
by virtue of
/baɪ ˈvɜːtʃuː əv/ · by VUR-choo uvreasoning phrase
Because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
Use by virtue of to signal this exact relationship between ideas: because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
What by virtue of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Reason from property
Attribute an effect to an inherent quality.
Example
The material resists heat by virtue of its structure.
3
Identify enabling means
Explain what makes an ability possible.
Example
The lens magnifies by virtue of its curved surface.
Use by virtue of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
By virtue of her office, the chair may cast the deciding vote.
The material resists heat by virtue of its structure.
The lens magnifies by virtue of its curved surface.
Precision Matters
By virtue of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
by virtue of
vs.Signals because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
by virtue of
vs.Signals because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
as such
Means in that stated capacity; sometimes therefore when the prior noun supplies the basis.
by virtue of
vs.Signals because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
attributable to
Means capable of being explained as the result of a particular cause.
by virtue of
vs.Signals because of possessing a quality, status, or circumstance; through the agency of.
despite
Means without being prevented by.
Test by virtue of in Context
The physical property enables the ability being described.
1
The insect can walk on water ___ the fine hairs that distribute its weight across the surface.