Get By

1. To pass someone or something.

Examples: The police aren’t letting anyone get by the barriers.
Move to the left, so the joggers can get by.

2. To survive or function with just enough of something.

Examples: It’s not easy getting by without a job!
He’s getting by with a lot of support from friends and family.

3. To not notice something.

Examples: The guards are really diligent and nothing gets by them.
Do you really believe that’s going to get by mom?

See our complete list of English phrasal verbs.