by the window

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by the window" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an object or someone being near or close to a window. For example: I saw a moth fluttering by the window.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She sat by the window.

The New York Times

Lianne stood by the window.

The New Yorker

He sat by the window facing….

The New Yorker

Lynne stood a moment by the window.

The New Yorker

Standing by the window?

The New York Times

On Sunday I stand by the window.

The New Yorker

Once, even burgled by the window cleaner.

Independent

He stands by the window.

The Guardian - Books

Me, I was just by the window.

The New York Times

Grab a coveted booth by the window.

The Guardian - Travel

Olive trees rush by the window.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by the window" to describe a location close to a window, whether someone is standing, sitting, or something is placed there. It provides a clear sense of spatial context.

Common error

Avoid using "by the window" when something is clearly inside or outside the window. "By" implies immediate adjacency, not containment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by the window" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase of location, modifying verbs by specifying where an action occurs or a state exists. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Books

20%

Travel

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Huffington Post

2%

Yale University

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by the window" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial of location. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as in literature. Use this phrase to clearly indicate proximity to a window, providing spatial context in your writing. Be mindful of accurately representing physical relationships, ensuring the phrase reflects adjacency rather than enclosure. Alternatives such as "near the window" or "at the window" can be used depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near the window

Specifies a location in close proximity to the window, similar to "by the window".

at the window

Indicates a position directly at the window, focusing on the specific location.

beside the window

Suggests a position to the side of the window, emphasizing lateral placement.

close to the window

Highlights the closeness of an object or person to the window.

next to the window

Indicates adjacency to the window, specifying the immediate neighbor.

by the panes

Focuses on the panes of the window, instead of the window as a whole.

adjacent to the window

A more formal way of saying next to the window, indicating immediate proximity.

alongside the window

Implies being situated along the length of the window.

in the vicinity of the window

Indicates a general area near the window, not necessarily right next to it.

in close proximity to the window

A formal way to express nearness to the window.

FAQs

How can I use "by the window" in a sentence?

You can use "by the window" to describe someone standing, sitting, or placing an object near a window. For example, "She was sitting "by the window", reading a book."

What's a similar phrase to "by the window"?

Alternatives to "by the window" include "near the window", "at the window", or "beside the window". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in the window" instead of "by the window"?

While "by the window" indicates proximity, "in the window" suggests being enclosed or contained within the window's frame. The choice depends on what you want to describe. Someone can stay "by the window" looking outside. A product can be "in the window" in a shop.

Which is more precise: "by the window" or "next to the window"?

"Next to the window" often implies direct adjacency, while "by the window" can suggest a slightly broader vicinity. Depending on the context, they can be used interchangeably, but "next to" is generally more specific.