B2adjectivetechnologytravel
US/ˈstænd.baɪ/
UK/ˈstænd.baɪ/
ready to be used or to take action if something goes wrong or someone cannot come
In context
The hospital keeps a standby generator in case the power goes out.
I bought a standby ticket and hoped some passengers would not show up.
The airline put extra standby crews at the airport during the storm.
Words that go with standby
adjective + noun
- standby modePlease leave the TV in standby mode.
- standby ticketShe flew with a standby ticket.
- standby powerThe building has standby power for emergencies.
- standby generatorA standby generator started automatically.
- standby crewA standby crew was called in at midnight.
noun + preposition
- on standbyDoctors were on standby all night.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Doctors were in standby all night.Correct: Doctors were on standby all night.