"By virtue of something" is a commonly used phrase that means to possess a particular quality, power, or authority as a result of a specific situation or circumstance. It denotes that the mentioned quality or authority is obtained or derived from the mentioned thing or factor. The term "virtue" here refers to an inherent power or advantage that something possesses.
When used, it usually suggests that the mentioned quality or advantage is a direct consequence of the specific element mentioned. It implies that the mentioned factor is responsible for the possession of the quality being described.
For instance, if someone says, "By virtue of her hard work, she got promoted," it means that the person being referred to achieved the promotion solely because of her diligent efforts and dedication.
Similarly, in legal contexts, the phrase "by virtue of the law" refers to an authority or power granted to someone as a direct consequence of a specific statute, regulation, or legal provision. This implies that the mentioned person or entity possesses particular rights or privileges in accordance with the stated law.
Overall, the phrase "by virtue of something" emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationship between a specific factor or circumstance and the resulting quality, power, or authority possessed by an individual or entity.
