By + Gerund Clauses
Listen to four conversations using the grammar point.
Answer the following questions about the interview.
By + Gerund Clauses
Point 1: The pattern ‘by + gerund’ shows a conditional or cause-and-effect relationship.
- By walking to work, you can lose weight and save money.
- By using this app, you can learn vocabulary anytime, anywhere.
- I learn Spanish by watching Mexican TV dramas.
- She made a lot of enemies by spreading rumors about people.
Point 2: This pattern can have a similar meaning to ‘if’ in conditional statements.
- If you use this coupon, you can save money.
By using this coupon, you can save money. - If you take the course, you can learn all about software design.
By taking the course, you can learn all about software design.
Point 3: This pattern also has a similar meaning to the phrase ‘as a result of’.
- I lost a lot of weight as a result of exercising two hours a day.
- I lost a lot of weight by exercising two hours a day.
- We can help the environment as a result of eating less meat.
- We can help the environment by eating less meat.
Point 4: This pattern can also take a negative form.
- I learned a lot by not talking and just listening.
- By not trying, you are wasting a great opportunity.
- By not speaking up, you are encouraging his bad behavior.
- He lost a lot of money by not keeping track of his expenses.
