in standby

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in standby" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a state of readiness or being on hold, often in technical or operational contexts. Example: The system is currently in standby mode, ready to activate when needed. Alternative expressions include "on standby" and "in a waiting state."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Similarly, put your phone to sleep when it is in standby.

The New York Times - Tech

The company claims a battery life of about a week in use, 30 days in standby.

The New York Times

That is about three times what my H.P. printer cost to leave it in standby mode.

The New York Times

Most mobile phones, meanwhile, will retain a charge for days in standby mode, if used sparingly.

The Economist

New software allows the television to consume minimal energy in standby mode.

The New York Times - Magazine

It can operate about 8 days in standby mode on one charge.

The New York Times - Tech

Although Sony's machine consumes more power while gaming, Xbox One is more greedy in standby mode.

The Guardian - Tech

A full charge takes three to four hours when in standby.

The Guardian - Tech

A further dose came this February, with about $16 billion in standby credits, $12 billion of it new money.

The Economist

The company said the battery would last 160 hours under constant use, and six months in standby mode.

The New York Times

Just as it was with the on-screen clock in standby mode that is now on Lumia phones.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in standby" to clearly indicate that a system, device, or person is available and ready for immediate use, but not currently active. This ensures clarity in technical documentation and operational procedures.

Common error

Avoid using "in standby" when you mean completely powered down or "off". "In standby" implies a minimal level of power is still being used and the system can be quickly reactivated. Using the terms interchangeably can lead to misunderstandings about energy consumption and system readiness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in standby" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating a state of readiness or availability. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment that the phrase is grammatically sound. Examples from Ludwig show it describing the state of devices, systems, or even people waiting to be activated or used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in standby" is a prepositional phrase that effectively communicates a state of readiness or availability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. To ensure clear communication, remember that "in standby" implies a device is ready for use but not currently active, differentiating it from being completely "off". Consider using alternatives like "on standby" or "in reserve" depending on the specific nuance. When writing, avoid using "in standby" when you intend to refer to a device turned off. With its high frequency and clear meaning, "in standby" is a valuable phrase in both technical and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on standby

A very similar preposition is used, maintaining the core meaning with a slight variation in expression.

in reserve

Implies something is kept back or saved for future use when needed.

in readiness

Highlights the state of being prepared and ready for action.

in waiting

Suggests a passive state of being available until called upon.

on call

Refers specifically to being available to respond to a call or request.

at the ready

Emphasizes the immediate availability and preparedness.

in a state of alert

Highlights a heightened state of awareness and preparation for potential action.

in a dormant state

Indicates a period of inactivity, with the potential for future activation.

in a holding pattern

Suggests a temporary state of suspension, awaiting further instructions or developments.

in abeyance

Implies a temporary suspension or inactivity, often in a formal or legal context.

FAQs

How can I use "in standby" in a sentence?

You can use "in standby" to describe a device or system that is ready for use but not actively operating, for example: "The server is "in standby" mode to conserve energy".

What's the difference between "in standby" and "turned off"?

"In standby" implies the device is still drawing a minimal amount of power and can be quickly reactivated. "Turned off" means the device is completely without power. Using "turned off" indicates no power consumption, unlike ""in standby"".

Is it correct to say "on standby" instead of "in standby"?

Yes, "on standby" is a commonly used and perfectly acceptable alternative to "in standby". Both phrases have the same meaning and are interchangeable in most contexts.

What are some other phrases similar to "in standby"?

Alternatives include "in reserve", "in readiness", or "at the ready", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each phrase suggests a state of availability or preparedness.