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Phrasal verbs "live by" vs "live with"

Differences between live by and live with

Live by means to follow a particular set of principles or rules, while live with means to tolerate or accept something that is unpleasant or difficult.

Meanings and Definitions: live by vs live with

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Live by

  • 1Follow a belief system to guide your behaviour.

    He tries hard to LIVE BY the Bible.

Live with

  • 1Accept something unpleasant.

    It's hard to LIVE WITH the pain of a serious illness.

  • 2Have a relationship and live in the same place without marrying.

    I LIVED WITH her for a couple of years before the relationship went sour.

Usage Examples: live by, live with in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

live by

Example

She tries to live by the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated.

Example

He lives by the teachings of his religion.

live with

Example

She has to live with the consequences of her actions.

Example

He lives with his girlfriend in a small apartment.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live by

abide by

To follow or obey a particular set of rules or principles.

Example

As a lawyer, she always abides by the ethical standards of her profession.

adhere to

To stick to or follow a particular set of guidelines or principles.

Example

In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, it's important to adhere to a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.

uphold

To support or maintain a particular set of values or principles.

Example

As a judge, it's important to uphold the law and ensure justice is served.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live with

put up with

To tolerate or endure something that is unpleasant or difficult.

Example

She had to put up with her noisy neighbors for months before they finally moved out.

deal with

To handle or manage a difficult or unpleasant situation.

Example

As a manager, he had to deal with a lot of employee conflicts and complaints.

cope with

To manage or handle a difficult or stressful situation.

Example

After her father's death, she had to learn how to cope with her grief and move forward.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “by”

Differences in live by vs live with: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: live by or live with?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but live with is more frequently used than live by. This is because live with can be used in a wider range of situations, while live by is more specific to following certain principles or rules.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of live by and live with

Live by and live with are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, live by may be used in more formal settings such as speeches or presentations when discussing personal values or beliefs.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of live by and live with

The tone of live by is often serious or determined, as it implies a commitment to following certain principles or rules. On the other hand, live with can have a more resigned or accepting tone, as it implies tolerating or accepting something that may not be ideal.

live by & live with: Synonyms and Antonyms

Live by

Synonyms

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