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do by

B2 neutral inseparable transitive

In simple words

To treat someone in a certain way — fairly, kindly, or badly.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

uncommon

To treat someone in a specified way — well, badly, fairly, etc.

"He always tried to do right by his employees, even when times were tough."

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
— The Bible, Luke 6:31 (Golden Rule, King James Version) — a foundational expression of 'doing by' others

Grammar: inseparable

2 C1 idiomatic neutral

rare

To fulfil one's obligations or responsibilities toward someone.

"She felt she hadn't done enough by her ageing parents."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Often found in the phrase 'do well by someone' (to treat them generously) or 'do right by someone' (to treat them fairly). The negative construction 'do badly by someone' is also used. Somewhat formal or literary in tone. Common in ethical or moral discussions.

Commonly used with

well right fairly kindly honestly poorly

Forms

Base

do by

I/you/we/they

3rd person

does by

he/she/it

Past simple

did by

yesterday

Past participle

done by

have + pp

-ing form

doing by

continuous

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Synonyms

treat act toward handle serve deal with behave toward

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