“By the time” is a commonly used phrase in the English language, but what does it really mean? This article will explore the definition, origin, and associations of “by the time,” as well as provide examples of how it can be used in everyday conversation.
Definitions
“By the time” is a prepositional phrase that refers to a specific point in time. It is used to indicate that something will happen or will have happened before a certain time or event. For example, “By the time I finish my work, it will be too late to go out.”
Origin
The origin of the phrase “by the time” is uncertain, but it has been used in the English language since at least the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “by the time” means “at or before the time when something happens or should happen.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “before the time at which (something) has been arranged or expected to happen.”
Associations
“By the time” is often used in conjunction with other phrases or clauses to express a sequence of events. For example, “By the time I got to the store, it had already closed.” It can also be used to emphasize the importance of timing, as in “By the time we realized what was happening, it was too late to stop it.”
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “by the time” include “before,” “prior to,” “earlier than,” and “in advance of.”
Antonyms
The opposite of “by the time” would be “after,” “subsequent to,” or “later than.”
The same root words
The phrase “by the time” does not have any specific root words, as it is a prepositional phrase made up of common English words.
Example Sentences
- By the time I finish this article, it will be time for lunch.
- He had already left by the time I got there.
- By the time we got to the beach, the sun had already set.
- By the time the concert started, all the seats were taken.
“By the time” is a useful phrase to express timing in the English language. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and has been around for centuries. Understanding its meaning and how to use it correctly can help improve communication and clarity in any situation.