stand by

What it means

To remain loyal to someone or to a decision, especially during a difficult time. It can also mean to wait, ready to act; the loyalty sense is inseparable and usually followed by a person or a statement.

Examples

• She stood by her husband throughout the long trial.
• I stand by everything I said in that interview.
• Good friends stand by you even when you've made mistakes.
• Emergency teams are standing by in case the storm worsens.

Where it comes from

From the literal image of standing next to someone in support, used figuratively since the Middle Ages. The 'wait, ready to act' sense became common with radio and military communication in the 20th century.

Related phrasal verbs