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
Layer with a stylish barn jacket for a more sophisticated look, or wear it by itself for brunch on the patio with friends.
—
Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Which is a violation all by itself.
—David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 31 Oct. 2025
And although this recipe embellishes the gourd with sautéed mushrooms, the roasted squash is also delectable all by itself.
—Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 29 Oct. 2025
See It The Power Shaker makes a subtle ripple that doesn’t do a ton all by itself.
—Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 29 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for by itself
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Which is a violation all by itself.
—David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 31 Oct. 2025
And although this recipe embellishes the gourd with sautéed mushrooms, the roasted squash is also delectable all by itself.
—Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 29 Oct. 2025
See It The Power Shaker makes a subtle ripple that doesn’t do a ton all by itself.
—Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 29 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for by itself
Cite this Entry
“By itself.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20itself. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share