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Phrasal verbs "stand aside" vs "stand by"

Differences between stand aside and stand by

Stand aside means to move out of the way or to not get involved in a situation, while stand by means to be ready and available to help or take action if needed.

Meanings and Definitions: stand aside vs stand by

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Stand aside

  • 1Leave a position so that someone else can take it.

    The prime minister should STAND ASIDE and let a new leader head the party.

Stand by

  • 1Support someone.

    He STOOD BY her throughout the trial as he believed her to be innocent.

  • 2Be ready and waiting for something to happen.

    The emergency services were STANDING BY waiting for the plane to land.

Usage Examples: stand aside, stand by in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

stand aside

Example

Please stand aside so I can get through.

Example

He stands aside to let the ambulance pass.

stand by

Example

I will always stand by my friends in times of need.

Example

She stands by her decision, even though others disagree.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand aside

step aside

To move out of the way or make room for someone or something.

Example

He asked the crowd to step aside so that the ambulance could pass through.

keep out of the way

To avoid interfering or obstructing someone or something.

Example

She decided to keep out of the way and let her colleagues handle the project.

stay clear

To avoid getting involved or interfering with something.

Example

He was advised to stay clear of the conflict and not take sides.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand by

be on call

To be ready and available to help or respond to a situation if needed.

Example

The doctor had to be on call all night in case of emergencies.

be at the ready

To be prepared and available to take action if needed.

Example

The rescue team was at the ready to respond to any calls for help during the storm.

be there for

To offer support or assistance to someone in need.

Example

She promised to be there for her friend during the difficult times ahead.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “by”

Differences in stand aside vs stand by: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: stand aside or stand by?

In everyday conversation, people use stand by more often than stand aside. This is because stand by is used in various contexts such as waiting for someone, being on standby for an emergency, or supporting someone. Stand aside is less common and mainly used when someone needs to move out of the way or not interfere with something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stand aside and stand by

Stand aside and stand by are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, stand by can also be used in formal settings such as business or emergency situations to convey a sense of readiness and availability.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stand aside and stand by

The tone of stand aside and stand by can differ based on context. Stand aside often carries a neutral or passive tone when related to moving out of the way or not getting involved, while stand by typically has a more active and supportive tone, especially when referring to being ready to help or take action.

stand aside & stand by: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stand aside

Synonyms

Stand by

Synonyms

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