by the numbers

phrase

1

: in unison to a specific count or cadence

2

: in a systematic, routine, or mechanical manner

a program run not by the numbers but with concern for the participants

Examples of by the numbers in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the last 15 years, venture capital’s gotten bigger by the numbers, and louder by pretty much any metric. — Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026

Novak Djokovic is, by the numbers, one of the best tennis players in the modern era. — Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026

What the Experts Say About Starting Out For anyone intimidated by the numbers, the study authors offered reassurance. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Aug. 2026

This isn’t a talking point; it’s genuinely borne out by the numbers, both scores and earnings. — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1918, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for by the numbers

• slumbers