Meaning
- as a result of something
- If you attain an outcome by dint of a thing, you reach it as a result of that thing.
Example Sentences
- He triumphs by dint of his persistence.
- He has obtained an advisory group by dint of his threat to quit.
- I believe you know, that by dint of interrogation, I might have proved it pretty quickly.
- Sean achieved what he desired by dint of pleading and intimidation.
- Paul got what he wanted by dint of requesting and bullying.
Origin
"Dint" has become an out-of-date term that exists only because of this comment. "Dint" is derived from the Old English word "dynt." In modern English, the expression has been shortened to "dent." How did the meaning of "dint" come to signify "as a result of"? This is accomplished by simply using the oldest form of the term, " by the sword," which was used to describe when a result was gained via the use of force. This is an archaic use that dates back to the 14th century when it was mentioned in Rouland's tales in 1330. It took decades for the phrase " by dint of " to be used outside of the context of swordplay.
