Standby: meaning, definitions and examples

This is a repeat of the earlier entry for 'standby', so refer to the previous context under the same word.

• Just in case I need additional support, I'll keep my secondary device on standby.
• The rescue team was on standby throughout the night.

Use to describe someone or something that is fully equipped and available for immediate action. It is a more general term than 'prepared'.

• Dinner is ready; please come to the table.
• Once the team was ready, the coach gave the signal to start the game.

Use to describe someone who has made all necessary arrangements and is ready to do something. It usually implies some level of advance planning or training.

• She felt well prepared for her job interview after practicing common questions.
• The family was prepared for the hurricane with enough food and water supplies.

Use when someone is required to be available to work, especially in professions like healthcare or emergency services, but not necessarily at their workplace.

• The doctor is on call this weekend in case of any emergencies.
• As a repair technician, I am often on call during evenings and weekends.

Repeated entry similar to the first context; avoid redundancy.

• See previous entry for 'standby'

Describes a low-power state where a device conserves energy but can quickly resume full operation.

• My laptop automatically goes into sleep mode after 15 minutes of inactivity
• The TV enters sleep mode if no buttons are pressed for a while

Similar to 'standby', suggesting a state of readiness, especially for devices, but more formally specifying 'mode'.

• The air conditioner goes into standby mode after reaching the desired temperature
• The software waits in standby mode until the user initiates a session

Refers to a state where a machine or device is turned on but not in active use, often waiting for instructions.

• The printer goes into idle mode after being unused for 10 minutes
• The factory machines entered idle mode during the lunch break

Often used to indicate readiness for immediate action or deployment, especially in situations that may require sudden responsiveness.

• The emergency team is on standby during the event.
• Please remain on standby until further instructions are provided.

Denotes the act of staying in one place or delaying action until a certain condition is met. It can sometimes imply impatience if used for long periods.

• We need to wait for the bus to arrive.
• Please wait here until your name is called.

General phrase used in a variety of contexts to indicate readiness for any situation or task.

• Be prepared for the meeting by reviewing all the documents.
• Scouts' motto is to always be prepared for any situation.

Primarily used in professional settings, especially in healthcare and emergency services, indicating availability to work when needed.

• The doctor is on call tonight in case of any emergencies.
• They have a team of technicians on call for any urgent repairs.