"in itself" vs "by itself"

Question

"in itself" vs "by itself"

Both 'by itself' and 'in itself' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'By itself' is used to indicate that something is alone or without help, while 'in itself' is used to emphasize that something has a particular quality independently of other factors.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

The phrase 'in itself' is used to emphasize that something has a particular quality independently of other factors. It highlights the inherent nature of the subject.

Examples:

The movie, in itself, is a masterpiece.
The idea, in itself, is not bad.
The dish, in itself, is delicious.
The concept, in itself, is innovative.
The argument, in itself, is strong.

Alternatives:

intrinsically
essentially
fundamentally
inherently
by its very nature

The phrase 'by itself' is used to indicate that something is alone or without help. It emphasizes the independent nature of the subject.

Examples:

The book is interesting by itself.
The painting stands out by itself in the gallery.
The toy car can move by itself.
The plant grew by itself in the garden.
The problem solved itself by itself.

Alternatives:

alone
on its own
independently
by its own
singly

Answer 1

in itself

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

by itself

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"in itself" vs "by itself"

in itself

by itself

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