On standby Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈstændˈbaɪ

ON STAND-by

UK

ˈɒn/ /stˈændbaɪ

on STAND-by

Definition

Ready to be used or to take action if needed, but not currently active or in use. It can refer to people who are waiting to be called, or equipment that is not operating but can be started quickly.

Usage & Nuances

'On standby' is common in both technical and everyday contexts. Used for devices ('TV is on standby'), people ('staff are on standby'), and travel ('standby ticket'). Implies being prepared but inactive. Not to be confused with 'stand by' (verb: to wait or support).

• Spanish: en espera - en reserva
• Portuguese (BR): em espera - de prontidão
• Portuguese (PT): em espera - de prontidão
• Chinese (Simplified): 待命 - 备用
• Chinese (Traditional): 待命 - 備用
• Hindi: तैयार (स्टैंडबाय) - प्रतीक्षा में
• Arabic: في وضع الاستعداد - احتياطي
• Bengali: স্ট্যান্ডবাই - প্রস্তুত অবস্থায়
• Russian: в режиме ожидания - наготове
• Japanese: 待機中 - スタンバイ
• Vietnamese: chế độ chờ - sẵn sàng
• Korean: 대기 중
• Turkish: beklemede - hazır durumda
• Urdu: اسٹینڈ بائی پر - تیار حالت میں
• Indonesian: siaga - dalam mode siaga

Example Sentences

Please keep your phone on standby in case we need to contact you.

basic

The rescue team is on standby for emergencies.

basic

My TV stays on standby when I'm not watching it.

basic

I’m on standby all weekend in case anyone calls in sick.

natural

The system will remain on standby until you press start.

natural

If the flight’s full, you might have to wait on standby for a seat.

natural