How Do You Spell SQUEAK BY?

Pronunciation: [skwˈiːk bˈa͡ɪ] (IPA)

The phrase "squeak by" is commonly used to describe a close call or a narrow escape from a difficult situation. But have you ever wondered why it's spelled that way? The key to understanding this phrase is in its pronunciation: /skwik baɪ/. The "ea" in "squeak" is pronounced as /kw/, the "k" sound is doubled, and the "by" at the end is pronounced as /baɪ/. Altogether, this creates a unique spelling and sound combination that perfectly captures the intensity of narrowly avoiding disaster.

SQUEAK BY Meaning and Definition

1. The term "squeak by" is an idiomatic expression that is typically used in a figurative sense to refer to a narrow or barely successful outcome or achievement. The phrase originated from the onomatopoeic representation of a high-pitched, creaky sound made when something narrowly passes through a tight space.

   When someone or something "squeaks by," it implies that they just manage to succeed, win, or accomplish a task, but only by a very small margin or with great difficulty. It indicates a close call or a near-miss situation where the outcome could have easily been different if circumstances were slightly changed.

   The phrase is often used in various contexts, such as sports, competitions, exams, business deals, or any situation where success or victory is uncertain or contested. For example, a team that "squeaks by" in a game wins by a very small margin or survives a tough challenge. Similarly, a student could "squeak by" an exam if they pass with a bare minimum score.

   Overall, "squeak by" emphasizes the narrowness and precariousness of a victory or accomplishment. It conveys the idea that the outcome was uncertain until the last moment and suggests a combination of luck, skill, and perseverance to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Common Misspellings for SQUEAK BY

• aqueak by
• zqueak by
• xqueak by
• dqueak by
• equeak by
• wqueak by
• s1ueak by
• s2ueak by
• swueak by
• saueak by
• sqyeak by
• sqheak by
• sqjeak by
• sqieak by
• sq8eak by
• sq7eak by
• squwak by
• squsak by
• squdak by

Etymology of SQUEAK BY

The phrase "squeak by" originated from the verb "squeak", which comes from Old English "screcian" meaning "to creak" or "to squeak". This is onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of a high-pitched noise. Over time, "squeak" came to signify a narrow escape or a close call. The addition of "by" to "squeak" in the phrase "squeak by" serves as a preposition indicating the manner or means by which the escape or success is achieved. It implies that one barely manages to pass or succeed in a given situation, just as a squeak represents a delicate or narrowly achieved sound.

Idioms with the word SQUEAK BY

• squeak by To barely succeed or achieve something, often with difficulty or by a narrow margin.

Similar spelling words for SQUEAK BY

• squeeze by,
• squawk box.