Differences between go before and go by
Go before usually means to precede or come before something or someone, while go by generally means to pass or elapse, especially time.
Meanings and Definitions: go before vs go by
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Go before
- 1Precede.
We can't ignore what has GONE BEFORE and pretend that everything has been OK.
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 before, go by in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go before
Example
The introduction should go before the main body of the text.
Example
The appetizer goes before the main course in a meal.
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 before
To come before something or someone in time or order.
Example
The opening ceremony will precede the main event by an hour.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go by
To move past or go beyond something or someone.
Example
The cars passed by the accident scene on the highway.
To pass or go by, especially time.
Example
It's hard to believe that a year has elapsed since we started working on this project.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “before”
Differences in go before vs go by: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go before or go by?
In daily conversation, people use go by more often than go before. This is because go by is used for more common situations such as asking about the time or how long something has been happening. Go before is not used as much. It's mainly used in specific contexts such as legal proceedings or historical events. So, while both phrases are used, go by is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go before and go by
Go before 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 before and go by
The tone of go before and go by can differ based on context. Go before often carries a formal or historical tone when related to events or legal proceedings, while go by typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to time or passing by something.
