in light of

Meaning

This phrase means taking certain facts, evidence, or new information into consideration when making a judgment or decision. It is used in formal and academic contexts to justify a change in perspective or action based on newly available data. The tone is analytical, logical, and objective.

Examples

• In light of recent scientific discoveries, the old hypothesis must be completely revised.

  In light of recent scientific discoveries, the old hypothesis must be completely revised.

• The committee decided to restructure the program in light of the declining enrollment numbers.

  The committee decided to restructure the program in light of the declining enrollment numbers.

• In light of the feedback from the peer reviewers, we made several major changes to the manuscript.

  In light of the feedback from the peer reviewers, we made several major changes to the manuscript.

• The university adjusted its budget in light of the unexpected reduction in government funding.

  The university adjusted its budget in light of the unexpected reduction in government funding.

• We must re-evaluate our long-term goals in light of these new economic realities.

  We must re-evaluate our long-term goals in light of these new economic realities.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ In the light of the new data, we changed our approach.

  ✓ In light of the new data, we changed our approach.

  While 'in the light of' is occasionally used, 'in light of' (without 'the') is much more common and preferred in modern academic English.

• ✗ In light with the recent events, the meeting has been postponed.

  ✓ In light of the recent events, the meeting has been postponed.

  The phrase must always be completed with the preposition 'of', never 'with'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• ___ the new evidence presented by the defense, the judge ordered a retrial.

  💡 Taking the new information into consideration.

  Show answer

  In light of

• The company updated its safety guidelines ___ the recent industrial accident.

  💡 Because of or considering the new situation.

  Show answer

  in light of