Differences between go back and go by

Go back usually means to return to a previous place or situation, whereas go by generally means to pass or elapse, often referring to time.

Meanings and Definitions: go back vs go by

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Go back

1Have a long history.
He and I GO BACK a long way- we were at school together.
2Return to, start doing something again.
We WENT BACK to work after the break.

Go by

1The passing of time.
Ten years WENT BY before we saw each other again.
2Trust or depend on for correct information.
Don't GO BY my watch; it's usually a bit slow.
3Pay a short visit, call.
Nobody was at home when I WENT BY yesterday.

Usage Examples: go back, go by in Sentences

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go back

Example

After the vacation, we had to go back to school.

Example

She goes back to her hometown every summer.

go by

Example

The days go by so quickly when you're having fun.

Example

Time goes by so fast when you're busy.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go back

return to

To go back to a previous place or situation.

Example

I want to return to my hometown and see my family again.

revert to

To go back to a previous state or condition.

Example

After the update, the software reverted to its previous version due to compatibility issues.

retreat to

To go back to a safe or comfortable place for protection or relaxation.

Example

After a long day at work, she likes to retreat to her cozy bedroom and read a book.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go by

pass by

To move past or go beyond something or someone.

Example

As I was walking, I saw a beautiful bird pass by me and fly away.

elapse

To pass or go by, often referring to time.

Example

It's hard to believe that 10 years have elapsed since we graduated from high school.

tick away

To pass or go by, often referring to time, with a ticking sound.

Example

As the clock ticked away, she realized she had spent hours working on the same project.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “go”

Phrasal Verbs with “back”

Phrasal Verbs with “by”

Differences in go back vs go by: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: go back or go by?

In daily conversation, people use go by more often than go back. This is because go by is used for more common situations such as asking for the time or talking about past events. Go back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about returning to a previous place or situation. So, while both phrases are used, go by is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go back and go by

Go back and go by are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of go back and go by

The tone of go back and go by can differ based on context. Go back often carries a nostalgic or regretful tone when related to returning to a past situation, while go by typically has a factual and objective tone, especially when referring to time passing.

go back & go by: Synonyms and Antonyms

Go back

Synonyms

Antonyms

Go by

Synonyms

Antonyms