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Prepositions with nouns

Using “lot” with prepositions

“By lot” is a fixed expression meaning by random selection. “With lot” is not standard, but “with a lot of” is common.

Quick answer

Correct usage

Use “by lot” when something is chosen randomly. Do not use “with lot” alone; English normally uses “with a lot of” before a noun.

The winner was chosen by lot.
She completed the task with a lot of care.

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
by lot

Choosing randomly

This formal expression means by drawing or random selection.

Seats were assigned by lot.
2
a lot of + noun

Expressing quantity

Use “a lot of” for large amounts or numbers.

We saw a lot of traffic.
3
with a lot of + noun

Describing manner or quantity

This pattern means using or showing a large amount of something.

He spoke with a lot of confidence.

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
by lot
The land was divided by lot.
through random selection
with lot
“With lot” alone is not idiomatic English.
generally incorrect combination
with a lot of
She answered with a lot of patience.
using or showing a large amount
a lot of
A lot of people agreed.
many or much

Common mistakes

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

Dropping the article in “a lot of”

The article “a” is required.

✕ with lot of energy ✓ with a lot of energy

Using “by lot” for quantity

“By lot” refers to random choice, not amount.

✕ We had by lot problems ✓ We had a lot of problems

Confusing “lot” and “lots”

Both are possible, but the structure changes slightly.

✕ lot people came ✓ lots of people came

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The teams were selected ___.
2. She spoke ___ enthusiasm.
3. ___ students joined the event.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “by lot” mean?

It means by random selection or drawing.

Is “with lot” correct?

Not usually. English normally uses “with a lot of.”

Can “lot” mean quantity?

Yes. “A lot of” means many or much.

"behind bar" or "of bar"? "beyond description" or "of description"? by, accident, of, accident "by boat" or "of boat"? "by chance" or "of chance"? "by default", "in default" or "of default"? "by extension", "of extension" or "for extension"? by, of, for, in or agreed-upon definition? by, of, in, into or to category? by, of, in, via or on telephone? by, of, on, for or in bus? by, of, to, with or from professor?

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