What are the common meanings of 'go by' in crossword puzzles?

'Go by' in crosswords typically refers to the passage of time (as in 'time goes by'), moving past something physically, or adhering to rules or standards (e.g., 'go by the book'). Context clues are key to distinguishing the intended meaning.

Why are there multiple answers for 'go by'?

Like many common phrases, 'go by' has several synonyms depending on the exact nuance the puzzle constructor intends. Different letter counts will guide you to the correct answer, which could be 'PASS', 'ELAPSE', 'PROCEED', or others depending on the context.

How can I figure out if 'go by' refers to time or movement?

Check the surrounding letters, the number of blanks provided, and any cross-referenced clues. If the clue hints at duration or periods, it's likely time-related (e.g., ELAPSE). If it suggests physical motion, answers like PASS or PROCEED might be appropriate. Also, consider the puzzle's theme or difficulty level.

go by crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the common crossword clue "go by", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations and organized by letter count, ensuring you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.

Solutions for "go by crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

PASS: To move past something or someone; to continue on a course. Often used when referring to time or physical movement.

FLOW: To move steadily and continuously, like water in a stream. Can imply an easy, uninterrupted progression.

5 Letters

SLIDE: To move smoothly along a surface, often without interruption. Can imply an effortless 'going by'.

LAPSE: To go by, especially in the context of time, often subtly or unnoticed. Similar to 'elapse'.

6 Letters

ELAPSE: This answer specifically refers to the passing or going by of time. A very common solution for 'go by' when the clue implies duration.

7 Letters

PROCEED: To continue to move forward or to begin and carry out an action. Implies a deliberate 'going by'.

ADVANCE: To move forward in a purposeful way, making progress. A strong synonym for 'go by' when progress is implied.

More About "go by crossword puzzle clue"

"Go by" is a deceptively simple phrase that can have multiple meanings in English, making it a versatile and sometimes tricky crossword clue. It can refer to the literal act of moving past something, as in "the car went by," or the abstract passage of time, as in "time goes by quickly." Understanding these nuances is crucial for deciphering the intended answer in a crossword puzzle.

Beyond physical movement and time, "go by" can also mean to adhere to something, like rules or a name, as in "to go by the book" or "he goes by the name of John." Crossword constructors love these kinds of clues because they test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to think contextually. Always consider the surrounding letters and other intersecting clues to narrow down the possibilities for "go by."

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider All Meanings: For common verbs or phrases like "go by," always consider all possible definitions. Is it about time, movement, or adherence to something?
Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most important guide. If you have "___SE" for "go by", ELAPSE is a strong candidate, while "P___S" points to PASS.
Look for Context Clues: Other words in the clue (e.g., "time," "rules," "forward") or in intersecting clues can often provide hints that direct you to the specific meaning of "go by" intended by the constructor.
Think of Phrasal Verbs: Many crossword clues involving common verbs are actually looking for phrasal verbs. While "go by" itself is a phrasal verb, consider if the answer might be part of a larger idiom.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "go by" mean in crossword clues?

"Go by" can mean to pass (as in time or physically), to be known as (e.g., 'go by a nickname'), or to adhere to a rule or standard (e.g., 'go by the rules'). The specific context within the puzzle will determine the correct answer.

Are there common synonyms for "go by" that frequently appear in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms include PASS, ELAPSE, PROCEED, ADVANCE, and sometimes FLOW or SLIDE, depending on the nuance. The letter count is crucial for narrowing down the options.

How can I improve my crossword vocabulary for verbs like "go by"?

Practice is key! Regularly solving crosswords helps you recognize patterns and common synonyms. Keep a dictionary or thesaurus handy, and pay attention to how words are used in different contexts within puzzles. Learning about phrasal verbs and idioms is also very beneficial.