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Raymond Kii Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

'by + V-ing' VS 'V-ing'

Hello everyone. This is Raymond Emotion: smile

I'm confused with the differences of the following two sentences:

1. I have completed this question by using his method.

2. I have completed this question using his method.

To me, both sentences sound OK but what is the rule to omit the preposition 'by'?

I cannot find a clear explanation about this topic...

Thanks in advance Emotion: smile
  

Top answer

Raymond Kii To me, both sentences sound OK but what is the rule to omit the preposition 'by'? I know of no set rule. In that structure, 'by' is usually or always optional, I suppose.

— Mister Micawber

  • Raymond Kii To me, both sentences sound OK but what is the rule to omit the preposition 'by'?
  • I know of no set rule.
  • In that structure, 'by' is usually or always optional, I suppose.
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3 Answers
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Raymond KiiTo me, both sentences sound OK but what is the rule to omit the preposition 'by'?
I know of no set rule. In that structure, 'by' is usually or always optional, I suppose.
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Thanks for your reply

Could you please give me some examples that 'by' cannnot be omitted in a sentence?
Is there any other sentence that 'by' is also optional?

Thanks in advance again!
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Raymond KiiCould you please give me some examples that 'by' cannnot be omitted in a sentence?Is there any other sentence that 'by' is also optional?
I don't know any offhand in that structure. You must know that the existence of many other phrases is highly likely:

I considered using his method. No 'by'.
I was affected by using his met
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