Differences between go by and go past
Go by means to pass or elapse, while go past means to move beyond or surpass something.
Meanings and Definitions: go by vs go past
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 past
- 1Pass without stopping.
She WENT PAST me without saying hello.
Usage Examples: go by, go past 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 past
Example
Every morning, I go past the bakery on my way to work.
Example
The bus goes past my house every hour.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go by
To move beyond or elapse.
Example
The days passed quickly during the summer vacation.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go past
To exceed or go beyond something in quality, quantity, or achievement.
Example
Her performance surpassed everyone's expectations and earned her a promotion.
To catch up with and pass by someone or something that was ahead.
Example
The runner overtook his competitors in the final lap and won the race.
go beyond
To exceed or transcend the limits or expectations of something.
Example
His generosity went beyond just donating money; he also volunteered his time and skills to help the cause.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Differences in go by vs go past: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go by or go past?
In daily conversation, people use go by more often than go past. This is because go by is used for more common situations such as time passing or following a schedule. Go past is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically moving beyond something. So, while both phrases are used, go by is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go by and go past
Go by and go past 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 past
The tone of go by and go past can differ based on context. Go by often carries a neutral or matter-of-fact tone when related to time or schedules, while go past typically has a more active and dynamic tone, especially when referring to physical movement or competition.
