Stop by

Meaning

The idiom "stop by" is used to express the intention of visiting someone or something for a short time, usually to check on them, pick up or drop off something, or simply to say hello. It can also be used to invite someone to come over for a quick chat or to join in an activity.

Usage

• I just stopped by the store to grab some groceries for dinner tonight.
• My neighbor dropped by to borrow my lawnmower, but forgot to return it.
• We always stop by our grandparents' house on Sunday mornings for coffee and conversation.
• I have an important meeting at the office tomorrow, but I'll be stopping by the gym after work to get a workout in.
• My friend stopped by my apartment earlier today to drop off a gift for my birthday.

Roots and History

The idiom "stop by" has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It originated from Old French, where it was called "stopar par", which means "to stop by". The phrase became popularized in English during the Renaissance when people traveled more frequently for business and social purposes.

Synonyms in English

• Drop in
• Pay a visit
• Swing by
• Stop over
• Pop in

Synonyms in other languages

• En français: Visiter brièvement (briefly)
• In Spanish: Parar brevemente (briefly)
• In Italian: Visitare bruscamente (suddenly)
• In German: Besuchen (visit)
• In Russian: Посетить (visit)

Similar Idioms

• sneak peek

• self-made man

• bird of passage