Here are the definition and examples of a preposition using “with,” “over,” and “by.”
PREPOSITION DEFINITION AND EXAMPLES—Here’s how to correctly use “with,” “over,” and “by” in a sentence, as they could sometimes be confusing.
Among the parts of speech is the preposition. It shows the relationship of a noun or pronoun to another word, indicating time, place, or relationship. Among the prepositions often confused when it comes to usage in a sentence are “with,” “over,” and “by.”
What is the difference between “with,” “over,” and “by?”
| WITH | OVER | BY |
| Used to indicate being together or being involved. Examples: I ordered a burger with fries. He was with his girlfriend when we saw each other. The supervisor will be with you shortly. Used to indicate “having.” Examples: I have seen a cat with green eyes. Were you the one talking with an accent? Dogs with blue eyes are beautiful. Used to indicate “using.” Examples: I wrote the letter with the pen you gave me. This is the burger that I made with no real meat, just veggies. He cut my hair with new scissors. Used to indicate feeling. Examples: I emailed you with my sincere apology. He narrated the story with intense fear. He came to me with sorrowful eyes. | Used to indicate movement from one place to another. Examples: I am coming over to your house to see the baby. Could you roll over? He sent over a cake for their anniversary. Used to indicate movement downward. Examples: The baby fell over on the cement pavement. Can you bend over and give me the spoon? He pushed me over the edge. Used to indicate more than an expected number or amount. Examples: The attendees were way over what we expected. Kids twelve and over are allowed to enter. He stood there for over an hour. Used to indicate a period of time. Examples: I stayed in their house for over a month. We were a couple for over a decade. | Used to indicate proximity. Examples: She was sitting by you. He was standing by me. The department store is by the bank. Used to indicate the person that does something in a passive voice sentence. Examples: I am loved by my family. The computer was fixed by the technician. The clothes were washed by the mother. Used to indicate an action with a particular purpose. Examples: You can make your dreams come true by working hard on them. I can express my feelings by writing a letter. She finally took the stage by being brave and confident. Used to indicate a means or method. Examples: I came here by bus. She sent the letter by email. |