standby

[ˈstændbaɪ]

standby Definition

  • 1a state of readiness to act or be called upon at a moment's notice
  • 2a person or thing that is available to perform a particular function as and when required

Using standby: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "standby" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The ambulance was on standby in case of any emergency.

  • Example

    We have a standby generator in case of a power outage.

  • Example

    The flight was overbooked, so I had to wait on standby for the next one.

  • Example

    I'll be your standby if you need any help.

standby Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for standby

Antonyms for standby

Idioms Using standby

  • ready and waiting for something to happen

    Example

    I'm on standby for the job interview, waiting for them to call me back.

  • to keep someone ready and waiting to do something

    Example

    We're keeping a lawyer on standby in case we need legal advice.

  • to temporarily stop using or working on something

    Example

    I put my project on standby while I worked on other things.

Phrases with standby

  • in a state of readiness to act or be called upon at a moment's notice

    Example

    The fire department is always on standby in case of an emergency.

  • a low-power mode that electronic devices enter when they are not in use but are still connected to a power source

    Example

    My computer automatically goes into standby mode after a period of inactivity.

  • a ticket for a flight that is not guaranteed, but allows the passenger to board if there are any available seats after all confirmed passengers have boarded

    Example

    I got a standby ticket for the next flight, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get on.

Origins of standby

from 'stand' + 'by'

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Summary: standby in Brief

The term 'standby' [ˈstændbaɪ] refers to a state of readiness to act or be called upon at a moment's notice. It can refer to a person or thing that is available to perform a particular function as and when required. Examples include an ambulance on standby, a standby generator, and a standby ticket. Idioms like 'on standby' and 'keep someone on standby' denote readiness and waiting, while 'put something on standby' means to temporarily stop using or working on something.

How do native speakers use this expression?