abide by
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle by
Meanings
Accept and follow a rule or decision
Why “by”? BY shows the thing that guides you: a rule, promise, name, or belief.
“Players must abide by the referee's decision.”
“All drivers must abide by the new rules.”
Test yourself
“Players must abide by the referee's decision.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
go by
Same by pattern: guide
Of time, pass or elapse; Use a rule, name, or evidence as your guide; Use a particular name
live by
Same by pattern: guide
Live according to a rule or principle
stand by
Same by pattern: guide
Wait, ready to act if needed; Stay loyal to what you said or promised; Watch without intervening
swear by
Same by pattern: guide
Strongly believe in the value or effectiveness of something
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