Differences between go by and go on
Go by usually means to pass or elapse, while go on generally means to continue or proceed with an action or event.
Meanings and Definitions: go by vs go on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Go on
- 1Continue.
He WENT ON and ON talking and I was so bored.
- 2Happen.
There are loads of people out in the street; what's GOING ON?
- 3Start doing or taking something.
She WENT ON the pill when she met him.
- 4Be guided.
The investigators have no clues to GO ON.
- 5Be nearly a certain period of time.
It's GOING ON ten years since we met.
- 6Progress.
They asked me how the project was GOING ON.
- 7Spend money.
Most of my salary GOES ON my mortgage repayments.
- 8Start working ( electric / electronic equipment ).
The alarm GOES ON when you close the front door.
Usage Examples: go by, go on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go by
Example
The days go by so quickly when you're having fun.
Example
Time goes by so fast when you're busy.
go on
Example
Please go on with your story, I'm listening.
Example
She goes on about her problems all the time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go by
To move past or go beyond a specific point or time.
Example
The train passed by the station without stopping, leaving the passengers stranded.
To pass or go by, especially when referring to time.
Example
It's hard to believe that ten years have elapsed since we graduated from college.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go on
To keep doing or proceeding with an action or event.
Example
Let's continue the meeting after lunch to discuss the remaining agenda items.
To move forward or continue with a plan or course of action.
Example
The company will proceed with the merger after conducting due diligence and obtaining regulatory approval.
Differences in go by vs go on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go by or go on?
In daily conversation, people use go on more often than go by. This is because go on is used for more common situations such as continuing a conversation or event. Go by is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about time passing. So, while both phrases are used, go on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go by and go on
Go by and go on 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 by and go on
The tone of go by and go on can differ based on context. Go by often carries a passive or observational tone when related to time, while go on typically has an active and engaged tone, especially when referring to continuing an activity or event.
