by the same token

Meaning

This transitional phrase is used to introduce a statement that is true for the same reasons as the previous one, or to show a logical connection where two facts support each other equally. It is highly common in academic writing and formal debates to present a parallel argument or a counter-balance. The tone is objective, logical, and structured.

Examples

• While digital learning offers unprecedented flexibility, by the same token, it demands a high degree of self-discipline from students.

  While digital learning offers unprecedented flexibility, by the same token, it demands a high degree of self-discipline from students.

• If we accept that economic growth drives urbanization, then, by the same token, we must acknowledge the environmental pressures that follow.

  If we accept that economic growth drives urbanization, then, by the same token, we must acknowledge the environmental pressures that follow.

• The study highlights the benefits of organic farming; by the same token, it acknowledges the challenges of lower crop yields.

  The study highlights the benefits of organic farming; by the same token, it acknowledges the challenges of lower crop yields.

• A rise in interest rates can curb inflation, but by the same token, it may slow down overall economic growth.

  A rise in interest rates can curb inflation, but by the same token, it may slow down overall economic growth.

• We must protect intellectual property rights, but by the same token, we should not stifle open-source innovation.

  We must protect intellectual property rights, but by the same token, we should not stifle open-source innovation.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The policy reduced carbon emissions, and by the same token, it rained yesterday.

  ✓ The policy reduced carbon emissions; by the same token, it improved overall urban air quality.

  Learners often use this phrase as a generic conjunction like 'and' or 'also'. It must connect two logically parallel points where one naturally follows from or mirrors the other.

• ✗ By the same token of the argument, we must consider the budget.

  ✓ By the same token, we must consider the budget.

  Learners sometimes treat 'token' as a literal noun that can be modified with a prepositional phrase. 'By the same token' is a fixed idiomatic transition and cannot be extended to 'by the same token of'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• High-income nations have the resources to invest in green energy; ___, they bear a greater historical responsibility for emissions.

  💡 Use a transition meaning 'for the same reasons' or 'similarly'.

  Show answer

  by the same token

• If we praise the team for the project's success, we must, ___, hold them accountable for its failures.

  💡 Fits between commas to show logical symmetry.

  Show answer

  by the same token