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sit by

Idioms  
  1. Also, sit idly by. Refrain from interfering, remain passive, as in I can't just sit by and let her get in trouble.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I’d wager that most people seldom sit by themselves and ponder what makes them tick, what causes their engines to rev, or why they like that one specific thing.

From Salon • Jun. 15, 2026

“Quantum, a year and a half ago, might’ve been at a place where businesses and governments could sit by and wait a year or two or three,” the CEO said.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

As a result, even senior Commerce officials at times sit by his office waiting or outside the building, watching for his car.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Judge continued to fundraise, often using collection tins, some of which still sit by tills in businesses around Teesside.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

I went to sit by him on the couch, my mind thrilling as the memory from the carnival slipped back in.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon

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