What is the meaning of 'by' in English? How to use by in a sentence? Usages of by.
The word 'by' can be used as a preposition and adverb in English. Since it is a versatile word, it can express many different meanings. Its basic uses and usage examples are given below.
1. A1 (preposition) near or next to someone or something
・We have a house by the lake.
・She was sitting by the window.
2. A1 (preposition) used to show who or what does, writes, etc. something
(It is usually used in the passive voice.)
・The company was founded by his father.
・Emma is a novel written by Jane Austen.
3. A1 (preposition) used to show how something is done
・I go to work by car.
・He calls me by my last name.
・Open the door by pressing the button.
4. A1 (preposition) not later than; before
・She should have arrived by now.
・I can finish the work by tomorrow.
5. A2 (preposition) according to
・They didn’t play the game by the rules.
・Don’t judge people by their appearances.
6. A2 (preposition) used to show the degree or amount of something
・Car prices rose by 10% last year.
・She broke the world record by 2 seconds.
7. B1 (adverb) past
・Time goes by so quickly.
・Just drive by and see where the road takes you.