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By vs With

  In this comparison article we will dive into the different usages of the prepositions "by" and "with". We will also explore their distinctions so that by the end of the article, you can comfortably use them in the correct context and express yourself or understand others confidently.

By

As an answer to "How"

  by + (verb + -ing form / gerund) or by + noun

  The primary usage of "by" involves explaining how something is done.
  When used with a noun, "by" typically describes the method of communication or transportation.
  Alternatively when we paired with a gerund, it signifies how something is done through a particular action.

  My car broke down and I had to come to work by bus. (How did you come to work today? Bus as a transportation method.)
  I'll be in London next week, but you can reach me by email. (Email as a communication method)
  You can change the settings by pressing the red button. (How do you change the settings?)

  The rest of the usaged by is followed by a noun.

distance/proximity

  In this usage, "by" indicates the closeness of one noun(person, animal, thing, ...) to another.

  Where's the garage key?
  I left it by the stove. (Meaning the key is located next to the stove, indicating its proximity.)

no later than a specific time

  In this context, "by" indicates a time limit or deadline.

  When does your bus leave?
  It leaves at 7:30. But I have to leave by 6:00, I need to eat something before then.

With

As an answer to "How"

  with + noun

  Yes, you've seen exactly same usage for "by" above. Maybe this is the trickiest part between "by" and "with".
  First difference, with this meaning "with" only can be followed by a noun.
  Above we pointed out specific use cases for "by", transportation and communicaton methods. On the other hand we use "with" in the meaning of "with usage of something(tool, part of a human body)".

  He carried heavy stuff with a handcart. (The handcart is the tool used for carrying.)
  I'd like to try my pasta with chopsticks. (Chopsticks as the tool/utensil.)

Being together

  In this context, "with" points out that two things or people are physically together.

  I was with Jerry the whole weekend, we went camping.
  Would you like Pepsi with your pizza?

Having something

  To illustrate this usage, let's consider a simple scenario:
  Imagine you're walking down the street and you see a man who has tattoo on his left arm.
  What did you see?
  You saw a man who has a tattoo. There you go, you saw a man with tattoo.

  I saw a man with tattoo today. I might get the same. (our article on may vs might)
  Hello sir, have you seen a dog with an orange collar?

Agreement

  This is a pretty straightforward case.
  "with" indicates agreement with someone.

  I'm with Mike on this case, he has strong arguments.

  Congratulations! You've made it to the end. Hope you already feel more confident. By practicing and repeating, you can accelerate the process, keep that in mind.