stand by

1. to do nothing to help someone 2. to keep a promise 3. to be on somebody's side and support them 4. to be ready to do something

Examples

1. Animals teach their cubs to hunt and simply stand by and watch them. 2. I hope you will stand by your promises and finish your work on time. 3. Mother will always stand by her children. 4. Firemen were standing by, ready to act.