LoginBy vs. Via
'By' and 'via' are commonly confused by English learners. In this lesson, we will learn when to use each of them and their uses.
What Is Their Main Difference?
The main difference between 'by' and 'via' is that 'by' can be used to refer to many different meanings but 'via' is only used to show a small number of things.
By and Via
Tools
When we want to show the tools, instruments, and platforms that were used for an action to be fulfilled, we use 'by' and 'via.'
I never pay
He learned English
I talked to him
Tip!
A more common way of talking about the tools used to fulfill an action is using 'with.' These tools can be ingredients, body parts, or objects.
I never pay
He learned English
Agent
When we are talking about who or what has done the action, we only 'by.' Have a look:
This book is
The car was driven
Tip!
Note that when using 'by' to show the agency, we mainly use passive voice.
Method
We also use 'by' and 'via' to show how something is done. This could include methods or the means of something. In this case, 'via' is much less common and might be considered odd. For example:
She was arrested
He bought the house
Through
We use 'by' and 'via' to talk about which road, or entrance someone uses to get to a place.
He entered
We went to Heartland
Where You Should Only Use By
Location
We use 'by' to talk about something that is near or at the side of something else. In this case, we cannot replace it by 'via.'
Lord M is always via her side.")
He walked via them as he hadn't noticed them.")
Measurement
We also use 'by' to show and talk about measurements.
All the workers here re paid
The floor is measured thirteen meters
Time and Duration
We use 'by' to talk about the duration of an action or event. We can get more specific with time as well. We can use 'by' to set a deadline like 'not later than,' or 'at or before.' Have a look:
Turn in your assignments
We were on the road
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