Go by

The phrase "go by" is a common idiom in the English language, often used to describe how we measure or judge something. It can refer to time, age, or even personal standards. Understanding the nuances of this idiom is crucial for effective communication, as it can be used in various contexts with different meanings. This article will delve into the different ways "go by" is used, exploring its various meanings and providing examples to illustrate its application.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Time and Age</h2>

One of the most common uses of "go by" is to refer to the passage of time. We often use it to describe how time has elapsed or how long something has been happening. For instance, "The years went by quickly" implies that time passed rapidly, while "He's been working here for five years, and it's gone by in a flash" suggests that the time spent working has been fleeting. Similarly, "go by" can be used to describe someone's age. "She's going on 30" implies that she is approaching her 30th birthday, while "He looks older than he goes by" suggests that he appears older than his actual age.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Standards and Criteria</h2>

"Go by" can also be used to describe the standards or criteria we use to judge something. This usage often implies a specific set of rules or guidelines. For example, "The judges will go by the criteria outlined in the competition rules" indicates that the judges will use the specific criteria mentioned in the rules to evaluate the contestants. Similarly, "We go by the principle of fairness in our decision-making" suggests that fairness is a guiding principle in their decision-making process.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Following Instructions</h2>

Another common usage of "go by" is to describe the act of following instructions or guidelines. This usage emphasizes adherence to a specific plan or procedure. For instance, "The team went by the project manager's instructions" implies that the team followed the project manager's instructions meticulously. Similarly, "The doctor went by the standard protocol for treating this condition" suggests that the doctor followed the established medical protocol for treating the specific condition.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Passing By</h2>

Finally, "go by" can also be used to describe the act of passing something or someone. This usage is often used in a literal sense, referring to physical movement. For example, "We went by the park on our way home" implies that they passed by the park while traveling home. Similarly, "The bus went by without stopping" suggests that the bus passed without stopping at the designated stop.

In conclusion, "go by" is a versatile idiom with multiple meanings. It can be used to describe the passage of time, the standards we use to judge something, the act of following instructions, and the act of passing something or someone. Understanding the different contexts in which "go by" is used is crucial for interpreting its meaning accurately and communicating effectively.