by itself
idiom
1
: without being directly controlled by a person : automatically
The computer shuts off by itself if you haven't used it for a while.
The sprinkler will turn on by itself.
2
: with nothing nearby : alone
The house stood by itself at the end of the street.
Examples of by itself in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Spags did a masterful job of scheming against Buffalo’s fourth-and-short plays no matter what anyone thinks of that review, but the Eagles’ tush-push is in a category by itself.
—
Hank Gola, New York Daily News, 7 Feb. 2025
Its capability for off-road driving is proven, and its iconic heritage look and feel put it in a class by itself.
—Scotty Reiss, Parents, 6 Feb. 2025
Finding, prosecuting and punishing Kendall’s killers won’t erase that fear by itself, but consequences for those responsible would provide some measure of reassurance nonetheless.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025
Ministry of Defence In addition to improving disposal operations, the robot dog was able to navigate the threat area by itself, negotiating stairs and obstacles as well as opening doors, allowing the operator to remain a safe distance away.
—David Szondy, New Atlas, 5 Feb. 2025
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Hank Gola, New York Daily News, 7 Feb. 2025
Its capability for off-road driving is proven, and its iconic heritage look and feel put it in a class by itself.
—Scotty Reiss, Parents, 6 Feb. 2025
Finding, prosecuting and punishing Kendall’s killers won’t erase that fear by itself, but consequences for those responsible would provide some measure of reassurance nonetheless.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025
Ministry of Defence In addition to improving disposal operations, the robot dog was able to navigate the threat area by itself, negotiating stairs and obstacles as well as opening doors, allowing the operator to remain a safe distance away.
—David Szondy, New Atlas, 5 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for by itself
Dictionary Entries Near by itself
Cite this Entry
“By itself.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20itself. Accessed 13 Feb. 2025.
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