Dear Geist,
Which is correct: “I am fascinated by fireworks” or “I am fascinated with fireworks”?
—Kate, Vancouver
Dear Kate,
This interesting detail has not united the expert language-watchers. In fact, most English usage guides are silent on the subject, probably because it is perfectly fine to use either by or with. The occasional self-proclaimed authority delves into the fine points of connotation: “fascinated by” referring to the bewitching of the fascinatee, and “fascinated with” referring to an ongoing conscious obsession, more like a dance. These gradations are—well, fascinating to ponder, but feel free to use the preposition that feels natural.
—The Editors
