1 A2 neutral
To pass a place or person while moving.
"We watched the parade go by from our window."
inseparable
go by
A2 neutral inseparable transitive/intransitive
To pass, to move past something, or to use something as a basis for judgement or action.
In plain English
To pass something, or to use a rule or name to guide what you do.
What does "go by" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
(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)
inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral
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."
inseparable
4 B1 idiomatic neutral
To be known by a particular name.
"His real name is Robert, but he goes by Bob."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move past or alongside something — this literal sense is the basis for several extended meanings.
Actually means
To pass something, or to use a rule or name to guide what you do.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "go by"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
time years name rules looks appearances
How to conjugate "go by"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
go by
I/you/we/they
3rd person
goes by
he/she/it
Past simple
went by
yesterday
Past participle
gone by
have + pp
-ing form
going by
continuous
Hear "go by" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "go by" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "go by"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
adhere to elapse follow judge by move past pass
Keep exploring
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