Definition

Verb: * To pass or move by smoothly, quietly, and often quickly, typically referring to the passage of time or an event. * To elapse; for a period to go by.

Usage

The verb "glide by" is used to describe how time or events pass in a way that seems effortless, smooth, and sometimes unnoticed. It often carries a neutral or slightly positive connotation, suggesting a pleasant or uneventful passage.

Examples

• Time:
• Event:
• Period:

Advanced Usage

• Impersonal Construction: It is common to use "glide by" with impersonal subjects like "time," "years," "days," or "the world."
  • The afternoon glided by as we talked.
• Figurative Use for Opportunities: Can be used figuratively for chances or opportunities that pass smoothly without being seized.
  • He let the opportunity for promotion glide by.

Variants and Related Words

• Glide (verb): To move smoothly and continuously.
  • The swans glided across the lake.
• Elapse (verb): (More formal) For time to pass or go by.
  • Several hours elapsed before they returned.

Synonyms

• Pass by
• Go by
• Slip by
• Roll by
• Fly by (implies greater speed)

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Go by: A more common and general synonym for passing, especially time.
  • As the weeks went by, her confidence grew.
• Slip by: Emphasizes passing quietly or unnoticed.
  • The deadline slipped by without anyone realizing.

Related Idioms

• Time flies: An idiom emphasizing how quickly time passes.
  • Time flies when you're having fun.
• In the blink of an eye: An idiom for something happening extremely quickly.
  • The years passed in the blink of an eye.

Verb

1. pass by
   • three years elapsed