1
Core relationship
Considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
Example
In light of the new evidence, the museum revised the object's date.
in light of
/ɪn laɪt əv/ · in LYTE uvreasoning phrase
Considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
Use in light of to express this relationship precisely: considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
What in light of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The route was changed in light of concerns about erosion.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
In light of recent findings, the earlier conclusion now appears too broad.
Use in light of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
In light of the new evidence, the museum revised the object's date.
The route was changed in light of concerns about erosion.
In light of recent findings, the earlier conclusion now appears too broad.
Precision Matters
In light of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in light of
vs.Means considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
in light of
vs.Means considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
due to
Means caused by or attributable to a stated factor.
in light of
vs.Means considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
for this reason
Means introduce a conclusion, action, or result justified by the immediately preceding reason.
in light of
vs.Means considering a fact or development, especially when it affects a judgment or decision.
in response to
Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
Test in light of in Context
The letters are evidence that changes the historians' judgment.
1
___ the newly discovered letters, historians have reconsidered the author's role in the campaign.