the use of by saying

[Attila]

Hi All,

Is by saying an often used expression?
If yes, are the two sentences below correct?

1. What do you mean by saying it doesn't work?
2. By saying it doesn't work, do you mean you can't open the site or your password is wrong?

[Alan]

Hi Attila,

They're both fine but there is a slight difference in emphasis. In (1) it means: when you say and in (2) this also means: when you say but it has also the underlying suggestion of: because you are saying.

Alan
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Phrasal Verbs/hold