In The Light Of: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 23, 2023

This idiom "In the light of "is often used to express consideration of certain facts or circumstances while making decisions or judgments.

In short:

 "In the light of" is used to denote consideration of specific information or circumstances in forming a decision or judgment. 

What Does "In The Light Of" Mean?

Essentially, "In the light of" means taking into account, considering, or based on a particular fact or circumstance. It's used to show that a decision or judgment has been made considering certain relevant facts or information.

  • Use in decisions: When you make a decision "in the light of" specific information, it means you've considered that information.
  • Use in judgments: When you make a judgment "in the light of" certain facts, it signifies that your judgment is based on those facts.

Common variations of this idiom include 'In light of' (without the 'the') and "in the light of the fact that." These variations carry the same meaning and can be used interchangeably.

Where Does "In The Light Of" Come From?

The idiom "In the light of" has its roots in the English language and has been used for several centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the idea of 'light' being symbolic of knowledge, clarity, and truth.

Historical Usage

"The evening was spent in the light of the information received."

— Example from 18th Century Literature.

10 Examples of "In The Light Of" in Sentences

Here are ten sentences demonstrating the use of "In the light of" in various contexts:

  • In the light of recent events, I became the bearer of bad news to my family.
  • He decided to retire early "in the light of" his health issues.
  • "In the light of" the new evidence, the jury revised its verdict.
  • In the light of recent discoveries, it's no surprise that great minds think alike when solving complex problems.
  • "In the light of" your achievements, we are promoting you to a higher position.
  • They revised their policies "in the light of" the customer feedback.
  • "In the light of" these findings, we need to change our approach.
  • He apologized "in the light of" the misunderstandings caused.
  • "In the light of" the latest updates, we need to reschedule our plans.
  • In the light of the approaching storm, I wish you safe travels.

Examples of "In The Light Of" in Pop Culture

Here are eight examples of how "In the light of" is used in pop culture:

  • In the movie 'The Dark Knight,' Batman says, "In the light of" what we're facing, it's clear we need to cooperate."
  • In the song 'In the Light' by Led Zeppelin, the lyrics state, "And if you feel that you can't go on, and your will's sinkin' low, just believe and you can't go wrong, "In the light of" you will find the road."
  • In the TV series 'Breaking Bad,' Walter White mentions, "In the light of" recent events, I think we need to be extra cautious."
  • In the novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch says, "In the light of" what they did, it's our duty to do the right thing."
  • In the TV show 'Friends,' Chandler Bing remarks, "In the light of" Joey's new job, we need to be more supportive."
  • In the film 'The Shawshank Redemption,' Andy Dufresne states, "In the light of" my years of wrongful imprisonment, I demand justice."
  • In the song 'In the Light of a New Day' by Santana, the lyrics read, "I want to live, I want to love, "In the light of' a new day."
  • In the TV series 'The Crown,' Queen Elizabeth II states, "In the light of" recent events, we must uphold the dignity of the crown."

Other Ways to Say "In The Light Of" 

Here are ten alternative phrases that can be used in place of "In the light of":

  • Considering the latest evidence, we need to revise our conclusion.
  • Taking into account your efforts, we have decided to reward you.
  • Given your performance, we are promoting you.
  • With respect to the new trends, we need to rethink our strategies.
  • Bearing in mind the customer feedback, we must alter our policies.
  • Looking at the current situation, we have to make some changes.
  • Owing to the circumstances, we need to reschedule our plans.
  • In view of the recent events, we need to take immediate action.
  • Due to the prevailing conditions, we have to reconsider our options.
  • In consideration of the latest updates, we need to review our approach.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "In The Light Of":

  • What is the origin of "In the Light of"?

The phrase has its roots in the English language and has been used for several centuries, with 'light' symbolizing knowledge, clarity, and truth.

  • Can "In the light of" be used in formal writing?

Yes, it is suitable for both formal and informal writing.

  • Is "In the light of" the same as 'Considering'?

Yes, both phrases can be used interchangeably in most contexts.

  • Can the idiom be used without "the" as "In light of"?

Yes, the idiom can also be expressed as "In light of" without changing the meaning.

  • Is "In the light of the fact that" a correct usage?

Yes, "In the light of the fact that" is a correct and commonly used variation of the idiom.

  • Are there synonyms for "In the light of"?

Yes, synonyms include "Considering," "Given," "Taking into account," "Owing to," "Bearing in mind," and more.

  • Is "In the light of" a metaphor?

Yes, it's a metaphorical phrase where 'light' symbolizes clarity, truth, or information.

  • Can "In the light of" be used in negative sentences?

Yes, the idiom can be used in any context where certain information or facts are considered, including negative sentences.

  • Can "In the light of" be used at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, it's common to use 'In the light of' at the beginning of a sentence, but it can also be placed in the middle or at the end.

  • Does "In the light of" have an opposite phrase?

While there isn't a direct opposite phrase, "In the light of" is often contrasted with phrases like "despite" or "regardless of," which ignore or reject the consideration of certain facts instead of taking them into account.

Final Thoughts About "In the Light Of"

The idiom "In the light of" is a versatile phrase that plays a crucial role in both spoken and written English. It's particularly useful when you want to express that a decision or judgment has been made considering certain relevant facts or information. Its variations and synonyms offer flexibility in language use, and its presence in popular culture underlines its widespread acceptance.

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