"by about" vs "by around"

Question

"by about" vs "by around"

Both "by about" and "by around" are commonly used in English to indicate an approximate time or quantity. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but "by about" is slightly more formal and precise, while "by around" is more casual and informal.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

Use "by about" when you want to convey an approximate time or quantity. It is slightly more formal and precise than "by around."

Examples:

The project will be completed by about 5 p.m.
She earns by about $50,000 a year.
The train should arrive by about 10 minutes.
We should be there by about noon.
The repair will cost by about $200.

Alternatives:

approximately
around
roughly
more or less
in the region of

Use "by around" when you want to convey an approximate time or quantity. It is more casual and informal compared to "by about."

Examples:

The meeting will start by around 3 p.m.
He weighs by around 200 pounds.
The package should arrive by around 5 p.m.
She will be here by around 7 o'clock.
The cost is by around $100.

Alternatives:

approximately
about
roughly
more or less
in the region of

Answer 1

by about

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate an approximate time or quantity.

Answer 2

by around

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate an approximate time or quantity.

"by about" vs "by around"

by about

by around

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