Meaning trap
go by
use as identity
to be known or called by a particular name or alias, especially one that is different from your official or original name.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to be known or called by a particular name or alias, especially one that is different from your official or original name.
'go by' also has the more basic meaning 'time passes'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Although her full name is Alexandra, she goes by Alex at work.
In many cultures, individuals may go by a nickname or a shortened version of their name in professional or social settings.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She goes by with the name Liz.
Say: She goes by Liz.
'Go by + name' directly — no 'with the name'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Go by (a name)' is the natural way to say what someone's called. The formal version is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
go by + name
- his middle name
- a nickname
- Jack
- just one name
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- go by (time passes) — 'go by' also has the more basic meaning 'time passes'; this is the advanced sense.