by

by · preposition

imported

Definitions

preposition

  1. 1.

    Past; passing.

  2. 2.

    Indicating the agent performing an action.

  3. 3.

    Indicating proximity or location.

  4. 4.

    Aside; in reserve.

  5. 5.

    Indicating a deadline or time limit.

  6. 6.

    Indicating method or means.

  7. 7.

    Indicating measurement or margin.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    by and large — on the whole; generally
  • •
    by the way — incidentally
  • •
    by all means — certainly; of course
  • •
    by heart — from memory
  • •
    by chance — accidentally
  • •
    by oneself — alone
  • •
    go by — to pass; to follow
  • •
    stand by — to support; to wait nearby

Related words

See also: beside, near, through, via
Synonyms: beside, near, through, via

Etymology

From Old English "bi" meaning by, near, or about, from Proto-Germanic "*bi" meaning near or by.