Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Go By"
The English language is filled with phrasal verbs, but few are as versatile and frequently used as "go by." Depending on the context, this simple combination of words can describe physical movement, the passage of time, or even the name someone chooses to use. Mastering this expression will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to navigate a variety of social and professional conversations with ease.
The Different Meanings of "Go By"
Because "go by" is so flexible, it is helpful to break it down into its four primary functions:
1. To pass or move past something
In its most literal sense, "go by" describes physical movement. You use this when someone or something moves past a specific location.
- I watched the parade go by from my office window.
- The train will go by your house at exactly 3:00 PM.
2. To follow a rule or standard
When you "go by" a rule, guide, or suggestion, you are choosing to act in accordance with it. It implies that you are using that specific information as a compass for your actions.
- If you go by the company policy, you aren't allowed to take personal calls at your desk.
- I usually go by my own intuition rather than listening to what others say.
3. To be known by a specific name
This is perhaps the most common way to hear the phrase in social settings. It refers to a person choosing a name that is different from their legal name or their birth name.
- His legal name is Robert, but he likes to go by "Bobby."
- After the divorce, she decided to go by her maiden name again.
4. The passage of time
When we talk about time, "go by" describes how the hours, days, or years seem to move forward.
- I cannot believe how fast the summer has gone by.
- As the years go by, you realize that health is the most important thing.
Grammar and Usage Patterns
Unlike many phrasal verbs that require an object, "go by" is often used intransitively, meaning it does not always need an object to follow it. For example, in the sentence "As the hours go by," there is no object after the phrase.
However, when you use it to mean "following a rule" or "using a name," it functions as a phrasal verb that takes an object:
- Rule usage: "You should go by the instructions provided in the manual."
- Name usage: "Does he go by a nickname?"
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common error learners make is confusing "go by" with "go through." While "go by" suggests moving past something or following a set of rules, "go through" implies entering something or experiencing a process. For instance, you "go by" a building, but you "go through" a door.
Another mistake is using "go by" to mean "stop by." If you want to visit someone briefly, it is better to say "stop by" or "drop by." Saying "I will go by your house" is technically correct, but it suggests you will simply walk or drive past it, rather than stopping to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "go by" formal or informal?
"Go by" is very natural and can be used in both casual conversations and professional settings. It is a standard part of everyday English.
Can I use "go by" for instructions?
Yes! It is very common to say, "What should we go by?" when asking someone which set of rules or criteria should be followed to complete a task.
How do I use it in the past tense?
Since "go" is an irregular verb, the past tense becomes "went." You would say, "I went by my middle name in college" or "The weeks went by very slowly."
Is "go by" the same as "go past"?
In terms of physical movement, yes, they are synonyms. "The bus went by" and "The bus went past" mean essentially the same thing.
Conclusion
The phrase "go by" is a perfect example of how English speakers use simple words to convey complex meanings. Whether you are discussing the rapid passage of time, explaining how you prefer to be addressed, or clarifying which rules you follow, "go by" is an essential tool for your vocabulary. Practice incorporating it into your daily speech, and you will soon find that it becomes a natural part of how you express yourself in English.