With Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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with

[wɪð ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Preposition}

in combination with

used to indicate the object of a verb or an action or activity carried out by someone

Synonyms

by means of, using, via.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
with	Generally used to indicate being accompanied by or involving something or someone. She walked with her friend. Mix the ingredients with a spoon.
using	Refers to the act of employing something as a tool or means to accomplish a task. He fixed the car using a wrench. She painted the picture using watercolors.
by means of	Formal way to describe the method or instrumentality through which something is done. He achieved success by means of hard work. The message was sent by means of a courier.
via	Often used to describe a route or medium through which something is conducted or transmitted. I will send you the documents via email. They traveled to Europe via London.

Examples of usage

He hit me with a stick.
She signed the letter with her name.
I cut the cake with a knife.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

indicating the means or instrument used

used to indicate the instrument or material used for an action

Synonyms

by means of, using, via.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
with	Repeated entry as requested, same contextual and example usage as the first entry. She painted the wall with a brush. The file was opened with the correct software.
using	Indicates the action of employing a tool, method, or material to complete a task. She decorated the cake using colorful sprinkles. He solved the equation using a calculator.
by means of	Slightly formal and often used to explain the method or instrument for achieving something, typically in written or technical contexts. He communicated by means of a secret code. The infection was treated by means of antibiotics.
via	Typically used to indicate travel or a means of communication, often has a more technical or formal tone. They traveled to France via Germany. The message was sent via email.

Examples of usage

She writes with a pen.
He painted the wall with a brush.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in the sense of accompanied by

used to indicate the person or thing that is present or participating in an action or event

Synonyms

accompanied by, in the company of, together with.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
with	While already mentioned above, the word 'with' is so versatile that it applies to many different contexts, including those addressed by the other words. I cooked dinner with my family. The book comes with a free bookmark.
accompanied by	Often used in more formal situations or to emphasize that one person is going along with another. The ambassador was accompanied by security guards. He arrived at the concert accompanied by his parents.
together with	Emphasizes unity or combined action, often used to indicate that two or more people are engaged in the same activity. They decided to go on vacation together with their friends. The report was made together with the marketing team.
in the company of	Used to emphasize the social aspect of being with others, often in a more formal or poetic context. She enjoyed the evening in the company of good friends. He prefers to read books in the company of his cat.

Examples of usage

She went to the party with her friends.
He arrived with his family.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'with'

The word 'with' has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled 'wið'. It has undergone various changes in pronunciation and spelling over the centuries. The preposition usage of 'with' has been present in English for centuries, indicating association, accompaniment, or means. The adverbial usage of 'with' to indicate the means or instrument used in an action has also been common throughout the history of the English language. Overall, 'with' is a versatile word that has remained a fundamental part of the English language.

See also: notwithstanding, within, without.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #5, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.

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