What are the definitions of “live by”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Follow a belief system to guide your behaviour.
He tries hard to LIVE BY the Bible.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “live by”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb live by is to follow a belief system, set of rules, or principles that guide your behavior and decisions in life. It means that you try to act according to these beliefs or rules in your daily life.
What are the different verb forms of “live by”?
| Root Verb | live by |
| Third Person Singular Present | lives by |
| Present Participle | living by |
| Simple Past | lived by |
| Past Participle | lived 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.
Example
They are living by the principles of honesty and integrity.
Example
Our grandparents lived by a strict moral code.
Example
The lessons she learned from her parents have been lived by throughout her life.
What kind of phrasal verb is “live by”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“live by” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She lives by the principle of kindness.
Example
He lives by the teachings of his religion.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“live by” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She lives by the principle of kindness.
Example
He lives by the teachings of his religion.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “live by”?
Good things to know
Does “live by” have an informal or formal tone?
Live by is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional environments.
