1 C1 formal
To distribute something among a number of people by passing it to each in turn.
"The portions of bread were given by to each soldier in the camp."
separable
give by
C1 formal separable transitive
An archaic expression meaning to distribute or hand something around to others.
In plain English
To give something to people one by one, passing it around.
What does "give by" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To give something by passing it from one person to another.
Actually means
To give something to people one by one, passing it around.
Usage tip
Extremely rare and archaic. Virtually absent from modern usage. Encountered only in historical texts or very formal archaic writing. ESL learners do not need to learn or use this expression actively.
Words that pair with "give by"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
copies portions rations
How to conjugate "give by"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
give by
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gives by
he/she/it
Past simple
gave by
yesterday
Past participle
given by
have + pp
-ing form
giving by
continuous
Hear "give by" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "give by" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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