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Prepositions after verbs

Magnify with by and in

Magnify commonly takes by to show degree or method. In usually introduces a place, image, or context rather than forming a fixed verb-preposition combination.

Quick answer

Which preposition is used with magnify?

Use magnify by to show how much something increases or what tool causes enlargement. Use in when referring to where something appears enlarged, such as in a photo or mirror.

The image was magnified by 200 percent.
Details looked clearer magnified in the microscope image.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
magnify by + amount

Showing the degree of enlargement

By introduces the amount of increase.

The text was magnified by 150 percent.
2
magnify by + means

Showing the instrument or cause

By can introduce the method or device that creates magnification.

The sample was magnified by a digital lens.
3
magnify in + image/place

Referring to a visual context

In usually refers to the place or image where something appears enlarged, not a fixed combination with magnify.

Small cracks appeared magnified in the photograph.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
magnify by
The map was magnified by 50 percent.
increase the size by a stated amount
magnify in
The scratches looked worse magnified in the video.
appear enlarged within a visual context
magnify with
The jeweller magnified the stone with a special lens.
use a tool to enlarge something

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using in for degree

Use by, not in, to show the amount of enlargement.

✕ The image was magnified in 300 percent. ✓ The image was magnified by 300 percent.

Confusing visual context with verb pattern

In often refers to the image or place where something appears enlarged.

✓ The defect appeared magnified in the scan.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The document was magnified ___ 125 percent.
2. The marks looked larger magnified ___ the photo.
3. The specimen was magnified ___ a powerful microscope.

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Frequently asked questions

Is magnify by standard English?

Yes. It is standard for amounts and methods of enlargement.

Is magnify in a fixed verb-preposition combination?

Usually no. In typically introduces a place, image, or context where something appears enlarged.

Can I use magnify with?

Yes. Magnify with is common when naming a tool such as a lens or microscope.

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