by 1 of 2

1
2
as in with
using the means or agency of try to convince them by reason alone, if possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
4
as in during
in the course of she attends college by day and works at the club by night

Synonyms & Similar Words

by

2 of 2

adverb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of by
Preposition
Step 2: Build Focus Blocks And Recharge Breaks Start with 90-minute slots followed by 10 to 20 minutes of total disengagement. Akin Akinpelu, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025 The first man behind the kit for the Grammy-winning group was Dave Krusen, followed by Matt Chamberlain and Dave Abbruzzese. Anna Chan, Billboard, 7 July 2025
Adverb
Getty Images As cars moved by, her caddie, David Taylor, stepped into the road, arms raised like a school crossing guard, to halt traffic and create a safe window for the shot. Devlina Sarkar, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 June 2025 Contractors needing temporary help would swing by and scoop up a few workers for the day, and a symbiotic ecosystem thrived. Kevin Williams, CNBC, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for by
Recent Examples of Synonyms for by
Preposition
  • Many of the robots already working in warehouses are stationary robotic arms, mobile robots that operate via wheels or other kinds of stationary robots designed for just one function.
    Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 10 July 2025
  • Ozuna’s solo homer in the sixth was the fifth of the day off Spence and increased the Braves’ lead to 8-1, with all their runs to that point coming via homers.
    David O'Brien, New York Times, 10 July 2025
Preposition
  • Bremner starred at Scripps Ranch High School before becoming one of the nation’s top pitchers with the Gauchos.
    Bodie De Silva, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • The first few units the company built came with mini fridges rather than full-size ones.
    Kate Talerico, Mercury News, 14 July 2025
Preposition
  • Our current favorite pairs include a few riffs on those flats from The Row—but thanks to the recent creative renaissance around jellies, there are so many more options to discover.
    Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 15 July 2025
  • They have been translated into more than 30 languages and won many prizes around the world and have been adapted for film, music, theatre, radio, and dance.
    A Dialogue, Literary Hub, 14 July 2025
Preposition
  • Immigration has shifted from being a border matter in the Biden era to being increasingly focused on interior enforcement during the Trump era.
    Anna Giaritelli, The Washington Examiner, 6 July 2025
  • Forever Young is a globe-trotting race horse that has displayed immense potential during his three years of competition.
    Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
Adverb
  • At the entrance to the members’ pavilion, two men in cream blazers mind the door and ask for everyone’s pass to be shown on the way in.
    Tim Spiers, New York Times, 11 July 2025
  • Give spots to players who earn it, not bought their way in.
    Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025
Preposition
  • Set in Bogotá, the film explores masculinity through the story of Carlos, a sensitive teen confronting toxic gender norms in a macho environment.
    Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 15 July 2025
  • This year’s report, released Monday, says there have been some improvements in protecting children against certain diseases through routine vaccinations.
    Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 15 July 2025
Preposition
  • Once again, a smiling Rodón showed his love for Judge, waiting for the right fielder near the Yankees dugout after recording his last out of the evening.
    Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 12 July 2025
  • Though Flagg struggled at times to find his rhythm, there were flashes as to why the former Duke star was chosen No. 1 overall in the draft last month, doing plenty of little things that helped the Mavericks seal the win, including a key block near the end of the game.
    Staff, Oc Register, 11 July 2025
Preposition
  • Discover easy meal prep strategies, nutritious grab-and-go options, and time-saving hacks to keep you fueled and focused throughout the day.
    Essence, Essence, 10 July 2025
  • Sunday in Austin comes with a 40% rain chance throughout the day before scaling back to a 20% chance at night, forecasters said.
    Roberto Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 10 July 2025

Cite this Entry

“By.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/by. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

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