Learning the different ways to say “by” in Mandarin Chinese is essential for effective communication. Whether you want to express the method, agent, or means by which something is done, “by” plays an important role. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express “by” in Mandarin, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations you may come across. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “By”
1. 以 (Yǐ)
Example: 我用英语写了一封信，以电子邮件发送给他。(Wǒ yòng yīngyǔ xiěle yī fēng xìn, yǐ diànzǐ yóujiàn fāsòng gěi tā.)
I wrote a letter in English and sent it to him by email.
2. 经由 (Jīngyóu)
Example: 他经由电话告诉我。(Tā jīngyóu diànhuà gàosù wǒ.)
He informed me by phone.
3. 通过 (Tōngguò)
Example: 我们可以通过学习提高汉语水平。(Wǒmen kěyǐ tōngguò xuéxí tígāo hànyǔ shuǐpíng.)
We can improve our Mandarin proficiency by studying.
Informal Ways to Say “By”
1. 用 (Yòng)
Example: 我通过邮件给你发送了照片，你看到了吗？(Wǒ tōngguò yóujiàn gěi nǐ fāsòngle zhàopiàn, nǐ kàndàole ma?)
I sent you the photos by email. Did you see them?
2. 靠 (Kào)
Example: 你可以靠这台机器学习。(Nǐ kěyǐ kào zhè tái jīqì xuéxí.)
You can learn by relying on this machine.
3. 凭 (Píng)
Example: 凭我的经验，这个问题很容易解决。(Píng wǒ de jīngyàn, zhège wèntí hěn róngyì jiějué.)
In my experience, this problem can be easily solved.
Regional Variations
While Mandarin Chinese is the official language in China, regional variations exist within the country. When it comes to expressing “by” in various regions, the following differences can be observed:
In some regions, such as Shandong and Henan, the word “用” (yòng) is commonly used to express “by” in informal contexts. However, in other regions like Guangdong, you may often hear “靠” (kào) or “凭” (píng) instead.
Additional Tips and Examples
1. When using “以” (yǐ), it is common to follow it with a noun or noun phrase to indicate the means or method.
Example: 以书面形式向我申请。(Yǐ shūmiàn xíngshì xiàng wǒ shēnqǐng.)
Apply to me in writing.
2. When using “经由” (jīngyóu), it emphasizes the process or route taken.
Example: 经由研究，我们找到了答案。(Jīngyóu yánjiū, wǒmen zhǎodàole dá’àn.)
Through research, we found the answer.
3. When using “通过” (tōngguò), it emphasizes the method or channel utilized.
Example: 通过互联网可以了解更多信息。(Tōngguò hùliánwǎng kěyǐ liǎojiě gèng duō xìnxī.)
Through the internet, you can obtain more information.
Conclusion
Mastering how to say “by” in Mandarin Chinese adds depth and clarity to your language skills. By understanding the formal and informal ways to express “by,” along with some helpful tips and examples, you can confidently navigate various situations. Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the formality of the context and the regional variations you may encounter. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be utilizing the different ways to say “by” effortlessly in Mandarin.
