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 Robot vacuums help cut down on chore time and eliminate back-bending aches and pains thanks to a programmable system that sweeps and cleans by itself, with no straining or bending needed. Alicia Geigel, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2024 Nicotine, by itself, in products like e-cigarettes and oral pouches, is harmful to adolescent brain development. Jon-Patrick Allem, The Conversation, 31 May 2024 While humidity by itself may not pose a major threat—especially at lower temperatures—its effects can be serious when combined with heat. Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 30 May 2024 Usually, the infection resolves by itself in a couple of weeks, but rare complications include meningitis and encephalitis. Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 30 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for by itself 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'by itself.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 9 Jun. 2024.

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