go by
To pass something, or to use a rule or name to guide what you do.
Meanings
To pass a place or person while moving.
"We watched the parade go by from our window."
(Of time) to pass or elapse.
"The years go by so fast when you're busy."
"The days go by / Are they lost? / I don't know."
— Talking Heads, 'Heaven' (1979)
To use something — a rule, name, or piece of information — as a guide or basis for judgement.
"Don't go by appearances; get to know her first."
To be known by a particular name.
"His real name is Robert, but he goes by Bob."
One of the most versatile and common phrasal verbs in English. Used for time passing, physical movement, using information as a guide, and being known by a particular name. All senses are standard across British and American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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