By God vs My God

[siCantikManis]

Hi,

People usually say, My God, you are irritating!

But can I say, By God, you are irritating!

I know it's correct, but do people use it?

Many thanks,
Cantik
_________________
Thou shalt not use yours to make the whole world jealous.

[Skrej]

Hi Cantik,

I'd say that yes, people do use both. I would guess that you're more likely to hear one variation over the other based on regional variations.

There is a slight nuanced difference in meaning, but the two are largely interchangeable.

'My God' has more of a feel of disbelief, or astonishment to it, where "By God" has more of a feel of a promise or oath to it.

"Oh my God, we're going to die!"
"By God, I swear we'll make it out of here alive!"

In your example, either would work.

Both are considered very, very mild profanities, but in this day and age both are widely used and socially acceptable in almost any situation, especially 'my God'.

[siCantikManis]

Great explanation! Thanks again.