are on standby

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are on standby" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is ready and waiting to take action or respond when needed. Example: "The emergency services are on standby in case of any incidents during the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Arsene Wenger says Arsenal are "on standby" to sign Liverpool striker Luis Suarez and admits transfer business has been tougher than usual this summer.

BBC

Meanwhile, personal injury lawyers are on standby.

The New York Times

"All the farmers are on standby.

The Guardian - Business

How many foster carers are on standby?

The Guardian

It's not easy; all of us are on standby.

The New York Times

More WFP-chartered ships are on standby near Aden.

The Guardian

Paramilitary guards are on standby across the country.

The Guardian

Four more teams are on standby for flood-prone coastal districts, he said.

The New York Times

Extra air conditioners are on standby for especially hot days; extra heaters for especially cold days.

The New York Times

SWAT team helicopters circle, squad cars fill the parking lot and medical tents are on standby.

The Guardian - Music

"Unicef and our partners are on standby to evacuate these children to safety.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are on standby" to clearly indicate that resources, personnel, or systems are ready and waiting for immediate deployment or action. This is particularly useful in emergency situations, planned events, or any scenario requiring preparedness.

Common error

Avoid using "are on standby" when implying complete inaction or passivity. The phrase suggests readiness, not dormancy. Instead, clarify the specific actions being prepared for and the conditions under which they will be initiated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are on standby" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of being ready and available for immediate action or deployment. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correctly used in various contexts to indicate preparedness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are on standby" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that effectively communicates a state of readiness. As Ludwig highlights, it is commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral in register, it emphasizes preparedness for immediate action. When using this phrase, ensure the subject is plural and that the context aligns with the implication of readiness rather than simple inaction. Alternatives include "are ready", "are prepared", and "are standing by", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are standing by

Indicates a state of readiness or immediate availability to assist or respond.

are ready

A more general term indicating preparedness for action.

are prepared

Similar to "are ready", but may imply a more thorough level of preparation.

are available

Focuses on the accessibility of resources or personnel.

are at the ready

Emphasizes immediate availability and preparedness for action.

are in a state of readiness

A more formal way of expressing preparedness.

are on call

Specifically refers to being available for duty or service when needed.

are waiting

Highlights the act of waiting for a signal or opportunity to act.

are in position

Indicates that resources or personnel are strategically located and prepared.

are geared up

Suggests a high level of preparation and enthusiasm.

FAQs

How do I use "are on standby" in a sentence?

Use "are on standby" to indicate that people or resources are ready and waiting to be deployed or used if needed. For example, "Emergency services are on standby in case of an accident."

What can I say instead of "are on standby"?

You can use alternatives like "are ready", "are prepared", or "are standing by" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is on standby" instead of "are on standby"?

No, "is on standby" is used for singular subjects, while "are on standby" is used for plural subjects. For example, "The team is on standby" versus "The teams are on standby".

What's the difference between "are on standby" and "are on call"?

"Are on standby" generally implies readiness at a specific location or for a specific event, while "are on call" suggests availability to be contacted and respond as needed, often from a remote location.