Pass-by

A **pass-by** refers to an event or instance where someone or something briefly moves past a particular point or location. This can involve people, vehicles, objects, or even abstract concepts like time or a feeling. Often, the duration of the encounter is short, with the subject continuing its course. The term emphasizes the transient nature of the event, highlighting the movement in space or time. A pass-by can be either observable, such as seeing a person walk past your window, or it could be an internal process such as a feeling of passing joy.

Pass-by meaning with examples

• The sudden appearance of the hawk was a fleeting pass-by; it soared above the trees before disappearing into the distance. Its quick presence made me think of a guardian angel, or a messenger from another world, I just wanted to see it for longer.
• We witnessed a parade of floats, each a dazzling pass-by, celebrating the town's anniversary. I was so amazed by the variety of designs, that it took my mind from my problems. Every float gave me a brief moment of joy.
• During my commute, the blur of cars represents a continuous pass-by on the highway, and made me want to get out of the traffic. I could see the drivers making their way to their destinations, and it created a sense of movement and progress.
• The feeling of nostalgia was a subtle pass-by when she looked at the old photographs. Every picture made her think of earlier moments of happiness, and as her tears were falling she was smiling.