By-stander

A bystander is an individual who is present at an event or situation, typically one involving conflict, danger, or wrongdoing, but does not actively participate. They may simply observe or witness the events without intervening or taking action. The role of a bystander can range from being a passive observer to being implicitly complicit, depending on their inaction or potential to have helped. This term emphasizes the individual's detachment from the primary action and their position outside the direct conflict or situation. Their presence, even if silent, can influence the atmosphere of an event.

By-stander meaning with examples

• During the street fight, a crowd of bystanders gathered, watching the altercation unfold. Many filmed it on their phones. No one wanted to get involved, too afraid of potential harm, choosing instead to remain passive observers of the violence.
• The victim pleaded for help as numerous bystanders witnessed the mugging; however, not one person offered assistance or attempted to intervene, showing the negative effects of inaction from a bystander.
• In the classroom, when a bully verbally assaulted a classmate, several students were bystanders, choosing to look away and not report the incident, thus allowing the behavior to continue.
• A bystander saw a car accident and immediately called emergency services to assist the injured, though they did not physically engage in helping the victims, offering support instead.