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way

Preposition dropped​

In an informal style, we usually drop the prepositions in or by before way.

  • You’re doing it (in) the wrong way.
  • Do it (in) any way you like.
  • Come this way.
  • We went there the usual way.

Relative structures​

In an informal style, we often say the way (that) instead of the way in/by which.

  • I don’t like the way (that) you talk to me.
  • Let’s go the way (that) we went yesterday.

Infinitive or -ing​

After way (meaning ‘method’/‘manner’) we can use an infinitive structure or of …ing. There is no important difference between the two structures.

  • There’s no way to prove / of proving that he was stealing.

way of and means of​

Way of is unusual before a noun (except in the common expression way of life). We use means of or method of instead.

  • The 19th century saw a revolution in means of transport. (not … ways of transport.)
  • They tried all possible methods of instruction, but the child learnt nothing.

in the way and on the way​

These expressions are quite different. In the/my, etc way is used for obstacles – things that stop people getting where they want to.

  • I can’t get the car out because those boxes are in the way.
  • Please don’t stand in the doorway – you’re in my way.

On the/my, etc way means ‘during the journey/movement’ or ‘coming’.

  • We’ll have lunch on our way.
  • Spring is on the way.
note

For by the way, (see here).