Bystander: meaning, definitions and examples

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bystander

[ ˈbaɪˌstændər ]

^{Context #1}

observe

A person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part in it or intervene.

Synonyms

onlooker, spectator, witness

Examples of usage

The bystander watched as the car accident unfolded.
The bystander chose not to get involved in the argument.

^{Context #2}

emergency

A person who is present at a difficult or dangerous situation but is not directly involved.

Synonyms

by-stander, observer, viewer

Examples of usage

The bystander called for help when they saw the fire break out.
The bystander provided first aid until the paramedics arrived.

Translations

Translations of the word "bystander" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espectador

🇮🇳 दर्शक

🇩🇪 Zuschauer

🇮🇩 penonton

🇺🇦 спостерігач

🇵🇱 widz

🇯🇵 傍観者 (ぼうかんしゃ)

🇫🇷 spectateur

🇪🇸 espectador

🇹🇷 seyirci

🇰🇷 방관자

🇸🇦 مشاهد

🇨🇿 divák

🇸🇰 divák

🇨🇳 旁观者 (pángguānzhě)

🇸🇮 opazovalec

🇮🇸 áhorfandi

🇰🇿 көрермен

🇬🇪 მაყურებელი

🇦🇿 tamaşaçı

🇲🇽 espectador

Word origin

The term 'bystander' originated in the early 16th century and is a combination of 'by' (near) and 'stander' (someone who stands). Originally, it referred to someone who stood by or near something, without being directly involved. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage to describe someone who is present at an event but does not participate actively. The concept of bystander intervention has gained importance in fields such as psychology and sociology, highlighting the role of bystanders in preventing harm or aiding in emergencies.