Set phrases with ‘by’ and ‘at’

Here are some set phrases with prepositions. This time it’s with ‘by’ and ‘at’.

• By accident: Sorry! It was a mistake. I did it by accident!

• By a long way: That was the best steak I’ve ever eaten by a long way.

• By trial and error: Let’s not proceed by trial and error – instead, let’s make a plan.

• By the skin of your teeth: She passed the exam by the skin of her teeth. She was exactly on the pass mark.

• By all means: Of course, I’ll help you! By all means!

• At present: I don’t have time for that at present.

• At any rate: Let’s go out. At any rate, we’ll get some exercise.

• At first sight: At first sight, the house is nothing special.

• At random: Choose a card at random.

• At ease: She puts everyone at ease because she’s so friendly.

Let's review! Choose 'by' or 'at'.

1. She loved the flat _____ first sight.

2. Oh no! Sorry, I knocked over the glass _____ accident.

3. He chose a cake _____ random.

4. Where are you working _____ present?

5. This is the best restaurant in the area _____ a long way. It's really excellent.

6. I wasn't _____ ease during that conversation.

7. A: Could I borrow your car? B: _____ all means!

8. She worked out how to build a website _____ trial and error.

9. He missed the car _____ the skin of his teeth.

10. You don't want any breakfast? Would you like some coffee, _____ any rate?

Answers

1. She loved the flat at first sight.

2. Oh no! Sorry, I knocked over the glass by accident.

3. He chose a cake at random.

4. Where are you working at present?

5. This is the best restaurant in the area by a long way. It's really excellent.

6. I wasn't at ease during that conversation.

7. A: Could I borrow your car? B: By all means!

8. She worked out how to build a website by trial and error.

9. He missed the car by the skin of his teeth.

10. You don't want any breakfast? Would you like some coffee, at any rate?