By

Definition

The word 'by' is a preposition that typically indicates the means, agent, or manner in which an action is performed. It is used to express relationships between different elements in a sentence, often linking the subject of a verb to the action taken, or showing how something is done or achieved. This term plays an important role in connecting ideas and providing clarity within sentences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'By' can indicate means, such as 'by bus' or 'by email,' showing how something is done.
2. 'By' is commonly used to express the agent in passive constructions, as in 'The book was written by the author.'
3. 'By' can also denote proximity or location, as seen in phrases like 'by the river.'
4. In time expressions, 'by' can indicate deadlines or points in time, as in 'Please submit your work by Friday.'
5. 'By' is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as 'by all means' or 'by and large,' enhancing its versatility in language.

Review Questions

• How does the preposition 'by' function within passive voice constructions?
  • 'By' plays a critical role in passive voice sentences by introducing the agent performing the action. For example, in the sentence 'The song was sung by the choir,' 'by' connects the action of singing to its doer, which is 'the choir.' This use of 'by' helps clarify who is responsible for the action, making it essential for understanding passive structures.
• Analyze how the use of 'by' can change the meaning of a sentence when indicating means versus agent.
  • 'By' can significantly alter a sentence's meaning depending on whether it indicates means or agent. For instance, in 'She traveled by train,' 'by' shows how she traveled (the means). However, in 'The report was prepared by her team,' 'by' specifies who did the preparing (the agent). Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective communication and clarity in writing.
• Evaluate the importance of 'by' in conveying complex relationships between actions and their agents in writing.
  • 'By' serves as an essential linguistic tool that helps convey complex relationships between actions and their agents. Its use not only clarifies who is performing an action but also enriches sentences by providing context regarding means and circumstances. This versatility makes it integral to effective writing, as it allows authors to express nuanced ideas and connections while maintaining clarity and precision.

Related terms

preposition: A word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other elements in a sentence, indicating direction, location, time, or manner.

agent: In grammar, the agent refers to the doer of an action in a sentence, typically represented by the subject when using an active voice.

passive voice: A grammatical construction where the subject receives the action of the verb rather than performing it, often introduced by 'by' to indicate the agent.