by

preposition
UK: /baɪ/
US: /baɪ/

  1. Near or next to something or someone.

    1. The bank is by the post office now.
    2. She sat by the window, watching the rain, feeling a bit sad.

  2. Used to show who or what did something.

    1. This book was written by my friend.
    2. The house was damaged by the storm, leaving it in need of repair.

  3. Indicating a means of transport or method.

    1. I go to work by bus every day.
    2. We contacted them by email, which was the quickest way to reach them.

  4. Not later than a particular time or date.

    1. I need this report by Friday.
    2. The project must be completed by the end of the year.

Synonyms

near before through beside until next to via
by adverb

  1. Near; in the vicinity.

    1. They live by.
    2. Some roses grew by, near the old oak.

  2. Past.

    1. Time went by.
    2. The parade marched slowly by, a colorful spectacle.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "by" in English means: Near or next to something or someone., Used to show who or what did something., Indicating a means of transport or method., Not later than a particular time or date..

The phonetic transcription of "by" is /baɪ/ in British English and /baɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "by": near, before, through, beside, until, next to, via.

Example usage of "by": "The bank is by the post office now.". More examples on the page.