live by
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle by
Meanings
Live according to a rule or principle
Why “by”? BY shows the thing that guides you: a rule, promise, name, or belief.
“He lives by a strict moral code.”
“Nina lives by a simple rule: be honest.”
Don't confuse with
Live by means follow a rule or principle in life. Live through means survive an event or period.
Test yourself
“He lives by a strict moral code.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
live through
A contrast learners often mix up
Survive an event or period
abide by
Same by pattern: guide
Accept and follow a rule or decision
go by
Same by pattern: guide
Of time, pass or elapse; Use a rule, name, or evidence as your guide; Use a particular name
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
live in
Same base verb: live
Live at the place where you work
live off
Same base verb: live
Survive on a particular source of money or food
live on
Same base verb: live
Continue to exist after a loss
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