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3. idly

idly

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sit by someone

to sit next to someone. May I sit by you? Come over here and sit by me.

See also: sit

sit idly by

 and stand idly by

to remain close, doing nothing to help. I do not intend to stand idly by while my children need my help. The wealthy man sat idly by while the poor people starved.

See also: idly, sit

sit (idly) by (and do something)

to take no action I felt we simply couldn't sit by and see the peace process threatened. We can't afford to sit idly by while dangerous people threaten our way of life.

See also: sit

sit by

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

See also: sit

sit by

v.

To remain uninvolved; refrain from acting: I did the work while the others sat by and watched.

See also: sit