Fly-by

A 'fly-by' describes a rapid, close-range encounter or observation, often involving an aircraft, spacecraft, or person moving quickly past something or someone. It can denote a quick assessment, brief visit, or a passing opportunity. The term emphasizes the swiftness and limited interaction of the event, focusing on the immediate observation or passing presence. It is a concise way of saying that something or someone swiftly moves past something else without extended engagement or involvement. The context often highlights speed, superficiality, and an absence of in-depth interaction.

Fly-by meaning with examples

• The fighter jet conducted a thrilling fly-by over the stadium during the opening ceremony, leaving spectators awestruck as it roared past. The brief but impactful display was a highlight of the event, showcasing the aircraft's speed and power. The airshow organizers planned the fly-by to make the crowd marvel at the machine. The fly-by aimed to capture the audience's attention with a stunning visual of the aircraft's speed.
• During their reconnaissance mission, the spacecraft performed a fly-by of the distant planet, collecting valuable data with its sensors as it rapidly passed. The scientific team worked tirelessly to analyze the images, which helped researchers gain further insight. They needed to maximize their speed and observe the planet as they flew by. The fly-by enabled scientists to observe the planet's atmosphere and surface details in a relatively short time.
• Feeling short on time, the manager made a quick fly-by of each department, offering a brief greeting to employees. The brief visits allowed her to make a cursory assessment of progress and offer encouragement. She wanted to boost morale and improve productivity during this rapid period. This strategic fly-by provided the manager with a quick update without disrupting daily operations.
• At the speed dating event, each participant had a short five-minute window for a quick fly-by conversation with the potential partners. This limited time structure encouraged participants to quickly get to know each other and decide if there was a spark. The organizers ensured they met all participants and shared their interests. Each fly-by was essential for participants in a swift selection process.