Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[missdaredevil]

Could anyone tell me the meaning of *By-the-numbers* life-changing experience?


Thanks

[Teacher Dian]

Dear Miss Daredevil,

"By the numbers" has a couple of meanings, but the one probably intended is "in a strict, mechanical way, step by step."

It's a strange idea to describe a "life-changing experience" as being "by the numbers". Usually, life-changing experiences are unexpected and even, at times, somewhat supernatural or magical. Therefore, the quote would suggest to me that the experience being described as "life-changing" was, in fact, commonplace and uninteresting.

Could you tell us more about the context of the quote in your question?
Thanks.

All the best,
Teacher Dian

[helen1]

Hi there

Based on your other messages I'm guessing this is another extract from a film review.

When critics refer to a film 'by the numbers' they are talking about the plot. They are saying the film is too predictable.

So as the rest of your question is about a life-changing experience - it contains all the elements and follows the format of this type of film but it is not exciting or inspiring.

'life-changing experience' - e.g. living through an earthquake, fire, plane crash or something less dramatic like an illness or seeing something happen to a person you care about - anything in fact that changes the way you think or feel about life.

Hope this helps

Helen.