Phrasal verb
go by
Meanings
to use something as a guide or basis for a decision, judgment, or action
to pass (time), especially quickly
to pass by someone or something while moving
Definition
To go by usually means to use something as a guide or basis for making a decision or judgment.
If you go by something, you accept it as the main information or rule you use to decide what to do or what is true. People often go by appearances, schedules, rules, or past experience when they do not have complete information. It can also mean to pass (for time) or to pass someone or something while moving.
Examples
- I usually go by the instructions when I assemble furniture.
- You can’t just go by appearances when you meet someone new.
- He went by the timetable to plan his commute.
- As we talked, the afternoon went by so fast.
- They went by the old lighthouse on their boat trip.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse go by (use as a guide) with go through (experience or examine in detail).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.