The phrase “by way of” is a common expression used in the English language. It is used to indicate the route or method taken to reach a destination or achieve a particular goal. This article aims to explore the definition, origin, and different meanings of the phrase “by way of.”
Definitions
The phrase “by way of” is an idiomatic expression that means “by means of” or “via.” It is used to indicate the route or method taken to reach a destination or achieve a particular goal. The phrase can also be used to introduce a point or topic in a conversation.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “by way of” can be traced back to the Middle English period. The phrase was first used in the 14th century and has since been used in various forms of literature.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “by way of” means “by means of; through; via.” Merriam-Webster defines the phrase as “by means of; through the medium of; via.” Collins Dictionary defines it as “by means of or via.”
Associations
The phrase “by way of” is often associated with travel, communication, and achieving a goal. It is commonly used in business and academic settings to describe the method or route taken to achieve a particular objective.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “by way of” include via, through, by means of, by use of, and by route of.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of “by way of,” but some phrases that can be used in its place include “without,” “not by way of,” and “not through.”
The same root words
The phrase “by way of” does not have any direct root words, but it is composed of the preposition “by” and the noun “way.”
Example Sentences
- I will be traveling to New York by way of Boston.
- She learned about the job opening by way of a friend.
- By way of introduction, my name is John.
- The package was delivered by way of FedEx.
- We can solve this problem by way of collaboration.