"on the eight o'clock train" vs "by the eight o'clock train"

Question

"on the eight o'clock train" vs "by the eight o'clock train"

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings and usage. 'On the eight o'clock train' implies traveling on the train at that specific time, while 'by the eight o'clock train' suggests being present or completing an action before the train departs at eight o'clock.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used to specify the time when someone is traveling on a train. It indicates the exact time of departure.

Examples:

I will meet you on the eight o'clock train platform.
She always takes the on the eight o'clock train to work.
He missed the on the eight o'clock train because of traffic.
They were excited to board the on the eight o'clock train.
The on the eight o'clock train is usually crowded during rush hour.

Alternatives:

on the train at eight o'clock
taking the eight o'clock train
boarding the train at eight o'clock
traveling on the eight o'clock train
catching the eight o'clock train

This phrase is used to express the idea of being present or finishing something before a specific time, in this case, before the eight o'clock train departs.

Examples:

Make sure you are at the station by the eight o'clock train.
I need to finish my work by the eight o'clock train departure.
She always arrives at the station by the eight o'clock train.
He wanted to buy a ticket by the eight o'clock train time.
They planned to have breakfast by the eight o'clock train.

Alternatives:

before the eight o'clock train
prior to the eight o'clock train
ahead of the eight o'clock train
in time for the eight o'clock train
before the departure of the eight o'clock train

Answer 1

on the eight o'clock train

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate traveling on the train at that specific time.

Answer 2

by the eight o'clock train

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate being present or completing an action before the train departs at eight o'clock.

"on the eight o'clock train" vs "by the eight o'clock train"

on the eight o'clock train

by the eight o'clock train

Related Comparisons