by dint of

Idioms  

1. By means of, as in By dint of hard work he got his degree in three years. The word dint, which survives only in this expression, originally meant “a stroke or blow,” and by the late 1500s signified the force behind such a blow. The current term preserves the implication of vigorous or persistent means.

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Example Sentences

“Home Alone” certainly made Culkin a star, which was its intention, and O’Hara, by dint of John Hughes’ characterization, an able partner.

From Salon • Feb. 4, 2026

Mr. Harkins insists that he is “not really special,” but he can be said to speak for his fellow officers by dint of family history.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

In presenting many of his bills or ideas, he acted as if they should pass by dint of their sheer excellence—as if old-school politicking was unnecessary and even distasteful.

From Slate • Dec. 29, 2024

But America matters by dint of its economic and military strength, and its major role in many alliances.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2024

Mrs. Fairfax stayed behind a moment to fasten the trap-door; I, by dint of groping, found the outlet from the attic, and proceeded to descend the narrow garret staircase.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë