By and with are used to describe who did something (agency) and what tool was used (instrument).
By (Agency — Who or What)
By introduces the person or thing that performs an action. It is common in passive voice.
- The cake was made by my grandmother.
- This book was written by a famous author.
- The window was broken by the storm.
By also describes the method or means of transportation.
- She travels by train.
- I communicate by email.
- He sent the package by courier.
With (Instrument — What Tool)
With introduces the tool, instrument, or thing used to perform an action.
- I cut the paper with scissors.
- She painted the picture with watercolors.
- He opened the door with a key.
By vs. With Side by Side
| Sentence | Meaning | | -------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------- | | The cake was made by my mother. | She made it (agent). | | The cake was made with love. | The ingredient/feeling used. | | The cake was made with organic flour. | The tool/ingredient. | | The picture was painted by Picasso. | The artist (agent). | | The picture was painted with oil paints. | The materials (instrument). |
Without (Absence)
Without is the opposite of "with" and describes the absence of a tool or companion.
- She did it without any help.
- I drink coffee without sugar.
- He left without saying goodbye.
Common Mistakes
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Incorrect: The door opened by a key.
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Correct: The door was opened with a key. (tool)
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Correct: The door was opened by the doorman. (agent)
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Incorrect: I go to work with car.
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Correct: I go to work by car. (transportation method)
By + Gerund
Use "by + -ing" to describe how something is achieved.
- You can improve by practicing every day.
- She saved money by cooking at home.