Standby vs. Idle: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 17, 2023
Standby refers to a state of readiness for action, often involving some low-level activity, while idle means doing nothing or being inactive, without any specific readiness for immediate action.
Key Differences
Standby is a term that implies readiness or preparedness for action. For instance, an airplane on standby is fueled and ready to take off but is waiting for a signal. In this state, it's not simply doing nothing; it's prepared for immediate deployment when called upon. Idle, on the other hand, refers to a state of inactivity where there is no specific preparation for immediate action. An idle person might be lounging with no particular intent or plan.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
In the context of machinery, standby and idle have distinct meanings as well. A machine in standby mode is powered on at a low energy state, ready to spring into full action quickly. Idle machinery is simply turned off or doing nothing, with no readiness for instant action. Standby usually implies that some energy is being consumed to maintain this state of readiness, whereas idle usually consumes little to no energy.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
In a technological context, like a computer or a smartphone, standby refers to a low-power state that maintains some level of activity, such as checking for updates or messages. Idle, in contrast, could mean that the device is on but not performing any tasks, or it may be completely turned off. Standby modes are often designed to facilitate a rapid return to full functionality, whereas idle states may require more time to become fully operational.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
To summarize, standby indicates a state of readiness and preparedness for immediate action, albeit at a reduced level of activity. Idle represents a lack of activity and a lack of preparedness for immediate action. Both terms are context-dependent but generally imply different states of readiness and activity.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Standby and Idle Definitions
Standby
A substitute or backup.
She was a standby passenger on the overbooked flight.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
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Idle
(intransitive) Of an engine: to run at a slow speed, or out of gear; to tick over.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
A state of readiness for immediate action.
The firefighters were on standby for emergency calls.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
Standby
A mode of low energy consumption in machines.
The TV is on standby mode when not in use.
Harlon Moss
Sep 17, 2023
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Idle
Disinclined to work or be active; lazy
“a man who could seem idle, ignorant, even incompetent, yet was able to understand and to express ... the instincts, good and bad, of the American majority” (Godfrey Hodgson).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
A mode of operation for a computer, television, or other electronic device in which the power is on and the device is ready for immediate use.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
(Sports) Not scheduled to play a game
Both teams played today but will be idle tomorrow.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Being a period of time in which there is little or no activity
Passed idle hours watching TV.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
Of, relating to, or waiting for unreserved travel space that is made available by an airline only shortly before departure
Standby passengers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To pass time without being engaged in purposeful activity
“The girls idled all day long, sending their tinkling laughter flowing up and down the street” (Alai).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
A state of readiness without immediate involvement; remaining in preparation for (a sudden or unforeseen event or situation).
The troops were on standby in case of an attack.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To move slowly or without purpose
“I drove past the workshop ... I idled along the driveway past the pole fence ... to Tyhee Road” (Tom Spanbauer).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To run at a slow speed or out of gear. Used of a motor or motor vehicle.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
(travel) Waiting at the airport in the hope of getting a seat on a flight that is already booked out.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
Something that is standard, well-tested, or frequently used.
That recipe is an old standby, and she keeps the ingredients around in case of unexpected guests.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To make or cause to be unemployed or inactive
Layoffs that idled 1,000 factory workers.
A plant that was idled by a strike.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
To wait briefly, as for additional communication by radio or telephone; stand by
Standby while I check that for you.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
A state of idling. Used of a motor vehicle
An engine running quietly at idle.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
A mechanism for regulating the speed at which an engine runs at rest
Set the idle higher to keep the motor from stalling.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Standby
A secondary role or function.
The generator serves as a standby in case of power failure.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Idle
Not being used appropriately; not occupied; (of time) with no, no important, or not much activity.
Idle hours
My computer hibernates after it has been idle for 30 minutes.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not engaged in any occupation or employment; unemployed; inactive; doing nothing in particular.
Idle workmen
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Of no importance; useless; worthless; vain; trifling; thoughtless; silly.
An idle story;
Idle talk;
Idle rumor
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
(intransitive) To lose or spend time doing nothing, or without being employed in business.
To idle in an IRC channel
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
(mechanical engineering) The lowest selectable thrust or power setting of an engine.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Of no account; useless; vain; trifling; unprofitable; thoughtless; silly; barren.
Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Down their idle weapons dropped.
This idle story became important.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not called into active service; not turned to appropriate use; unemployed; as, idle hours.
The idle spear and shield were high uphing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not employed; unoccupied with business; inactive; doing nothing; as, idle workmen.
Why stand ye here all the day idle?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Given rest and ease; averse to labor or employment; lazy; slothful; as, an idle fellow.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To lose or spend time in inaction, or without being employed in business.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
To spend in idleness; to waste; to consume; - often followed by away; as, to idle away an hour a day.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Be idle; exist in a changeless situation;
The old man sat and stagnated on his porch
He slugged in bed all morning
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not in action or at work;
An idle laborer
Idle drifters
The idle rich
An idle mind
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Without a basis in reason or fact;
Baseless gossip
The allegations proved groundless
Idle fears
Unfounded suspicions
Unwarranted jealousy
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not having a job;
Idle carpenters
Jobless transients
Many people in the area were out of work
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2022
Idle
Not in use or operation.
The factory machines were idle due to maintenance.
Sara Rehman
Sep 17, 2023
Idle
Lacking purpose or effect.
The discussion remained idle without resolution.
Sara Rehman
Sep 17, 2023
FAQs
What does idle mean?
Idle means doing nothing or being inactive, without readiness for action.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Is being on standby energy-efficient?
Standby consumes some energy to maintain readiness but less than full operation.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
Is idle time wasteful?
Idle time can be seen as unproductive, but it may be necessary for various reasons.
Harlon Moss
Sep 17, 2023
Can a machine be both on standby and idle?
Typically, no; standby and idle are different states.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
Is standby a noun or an adjective?
Standby can function as both a noun and an adjective.
Sara Rehman
Sep 17, 2023
Can being on standby cause wear and tear?
Being on standby can cause minimal wear, depending on the device or system.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
How do I know if my device is on standby?
Standby is often indicated by a light or symbol on the device.
Sara Rehman
Sep 17, 2023
Is standby the same as idle?
No, standby implies readiness for action, while idle means inactivity.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Does idle contribute to wear and tear?
Idle generally causes little to no wear and tear.
Harlon Moss
Sep 17, 2023
What does standby mean?
Standby refers to a state of readiness for immediate action.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Is it better to keep a device on standby or idle?
It depends on the need for quick responsiveness; standby for quick action, idle for energy savings.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 17, 2023
Is standby used in aviation?
Yes, standby can refer to flights or personnel ready for immediate action.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 17, 2023
Is idle used in transportation?
Yes, vehicles can idle when running but not moving, such as at a red light.
Janet White
Sep 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
