In English grammar, both by and with can be used to explain how something is done, but they are not interchangeable. The key distinction lies in whether you are referring to an action or a tool. In essence, by describes the method or action, while with indicates the tool or instrument used.
The Role of "By"
"By" is primarily used to denote the method, means, or agent of an action. It answers the question, "How was the action completed?"
Common uses of "by":
* To indicate the agent in a passive sentence: This is who or what performs the action.
* Example: The cake was made by my grandmother.
* Example: The window was broken by the strong wind.
* With a gerund (an -ing verb) to describe a method:
* Example: You can improve your English by practicing every day.
* Example: She calmed the baby by singing a lullaby.
* To express the means of transportation:
* Example: I travel to work by bus.
* Example: They sent the package by airmail.
* To describe a method of communication:
* Example: I will contact you by email.
* Example: He informed his boss by phone.
The Role of "With"
"With" is used to specify the tool, instrument, or object used to perform an action. It can also refer to body parts or ingredients.
Common uses of "with":
* To indicate a tool or instrument:
* Example: He cut the paper with scissors.
* Example: She opened the can with a can opener.
* To refer to a part of the body:
* Example: He pointed to the map with his finger.
* Example: She kicked the ball with her left foot.
* To specify ingredients:
* Example: The soup is made with fresh vegetables.
* Example: Decorate the cake with sprinkles.
"By" vs. "With": A Direct Comparison
| Context | Correct Usage | Incorrect Usage | Explanation |
| Action vs. Tool | She opened the door by turning the knob. | She opened the door with turning the knob. | "Turning the knob" is the action or method. |
| Tool vs. Action | She opened the door with a key. | She opened the door by a key. | "A key" is the tool used for the action. |
| Passive Agent | The message was delivered by a courier. | The message was delivered with a courier. | "A courier" is the agent who performed the action. |
| Instrument | He wrote the letter with a pen. | He wrote the letter by a pen. | "A pen" is the instrument used for writing. |
A classic example that illustrates the difference is the sentence: "The window was broken."
* The window was broken by a boy. (The boy is the agent who performed the action).
* The window was broken with a hammer. (The hammer is the tool used to break the window).
By understanding this fundamental difference between the action or agent (by) and the tool or instrument (with), you can use these prepositions correctly and more effectively in your writing and speech.
BY IS USED FOR MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATION:
by air
by mail
by subway
by
by land
by (tele)phone
(air)plane
by taxi
by sea
by fax
by train
by boat
by foot (OR on foot)
by bus
by car
OTHERS:
by chance
by choice
by mistake
by check (but
in cash )
by hand
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