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MustAsk Posted 12 years ago
Grammar

In vs by nature?

Hi

I stumbled upon this sentence:

The role of the Board is only advisory in nature.

Why isn't 'by nature' used? Maybe they are both interchangeable?

Thanks!
  

Top answer

I think "by nature" is more often used for animate things.

— GPY

  • I think "by nature" is more often used for animate things.
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3 Answers
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I think "by nature" is more often used for animate things.
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To me, 'in nature' means that the Board's function, style, reason for existing, make-up is only advisory. It has no other authority. 'By nature' is used to described the inherent quality of someone: he is very quiet by nature.
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MustAsk ... interchangeable?
No. They are completely different things.

'in nature' ~ of a certain kind

Carbenes are made up of unusual carbon atoms and are usually unstable in nature.
Some of the statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature.
Such legislation is totalitarian in nature, oppressi
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