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"by" vs "By now"

Both "by" and "by now" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "By" indicates a deadline or a point in time when something will happen, while "by now" implies that something should have happened or changed up to the present moment.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

by

This is a common and correct preposition used to indicate a deadline or a point in time when something will happen.

Use "by" to indicate the deadline by which something should be completed or the point in time when an action will occur.

Examples:

  • Please submit your report by Friday.
  • I will finish the project by the end of the month.

Alternatives:

  • before
  • until
  • no later than
  • prior to
  • at

By now

This is also a correct phrase used to indicate that something should have happened or changed up to the present moment.

Use "by now" to express that a particular action or change was expected to occur before the present moment.

Examples:

  • He should have arrived by now.
  • By now, you should have received the package.

Alternatives:

  • at this point
  • by this time
  • already
  • so far
  • up to now

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