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go on by

B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To keep going and not stop, even though something is there.

Literal meaning: To continue going and pass by — fully transparent and literal.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

To continue moving past something or someone without stopping.

"The bus went on by without stopping because the driver didn't see us."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 informal

(American English, especially Southern) used to tell someone to proceed or go ahead.

"Don't wait for me — go on by, I'll catch up with you later."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

More common in American English, particularly in Southern US dialects, where it can also be used as a polite dismissal or an invitation to proceed ('just go on by'). Also used in standard contexts to describe someone or something moving past without stopping.

Commonly used with

car crowd chance window opportunity people

Forms

Base
go on by
I/you/we/they
3rd person
goes on by
he/she/it
Past simple
went on by
yesterday
Past participle
gone on by
have + pp
-ing form
going on by
continuous

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Synonyms

pass by go past move on continue past keep going

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