by this stage

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Osya Bender

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We can also use 'should have' to speculate about events that may or may not have happened.
They should have all read that first email by this stage. It's time to send the next one.
(englishgrammarsecrets.com)
If you say that someone is gibbering, you mean that they are talking very fast and in a confused manner. [INFORMAL]
I was a gibbering wreck by this stage.
(Collins)

I suppose that in the first example by this stage can mean "at this point", am I right? But what does that mean in the second example?

Thank you
 

probus

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You are right and the meaning is the same in the second example.
 

5jj

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In both sentences, the expression means 'at or before this point'. 'By' has a greater suggestion of the process or time leading the the situation mentioned, in my opinion.
 
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