To treat or act toward someone in a particular way.
To treat someone in a certain way — fairly, kindly, or badly.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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
To fulfil one's obligations or responsibilities toward someone.
"She felt she hadn't done enough by her ageing parents."
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.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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