The phrasal verb "go by" is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts, though it leans more towards informal usage. In everyday language, "go by" typically means to pass by something physically, like a person passing by a store or a car by a location. It can also indicate the passage of time, as in "as the days go by." Furthermore, this phrasal verb is often used to refer to relying on or using something as a guideline or reference, such as "going by the rules" or "going by someone's advice." Another meaning includes being known by a particular name or title, for example, "She goes by the name of Jane." Its versatility and relatability make it quite prevalent in spoken English, but context determines its formality.
B1
Intermediate
1. To pass or move past something.
As the train goes by, the houses seem to blur into one another.
We watched a flock of birds go by overhead.
2. To follow or be guided by something, such as a rule, instruction, or precedent.
If we go by the weather forecast, we should bring an umbrella.
She always goes by the book when it comes to accounting.
3. To refer to or be identified by a particular name or title.