B2adjective2K

UK/["/stɪf/"]/US/["/stɪf/"]/

Meaning of Stiff

difficult to bend or move

In simple words: Not able to move easily; hard.

Stiff in a sentence

  • The chair was so stiff that I couldn't sit comfortably on it.
  • After the workout, my muscles felt stiff and sore.
  • His response was stiff, lacking any warmth or friendliness.
  • The negotiations continued but were becoming stiff and unproductive.
  • She wore a fancy dress that was stiff with layers of tulle.
  • He had a stiff upper lip, never showing his emotions in public.
  • The fabric of the shirt is too stiff for my liking.
  • We had a stiff competition in the last match, everyone played their best.

How to use Stiff

Used to describe something that is rigid or difficult to bend; also can describe a person who is not relaxed in behavior. Avoid in very casual conversations when referring to people.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'stiff' board that won't bend.

Related words

Synonyms for Stiff

Opposites of Stiff

Common mistakes with Stiff

  • Confused with 'stave' as in to prevent something.
  • Using 'stiff' to describe something that is simply cold without context.
  • Misunderstanding 'stiff' as only referring to physical rigidity.

Compare Stiff with Rigid, Hard, Tense

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Stiff in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Stiff

What does Stiff mean?

Not able to move easily; hard.

What is the definition of Stiff?

difficult to bend or move

How do you use Stiff in a sentence?

The chair was so stiff that I couldn't sit comfortably on it.

Can you give another example of Stiff?

After the workout, my muscles felt stiff and sore.

What are synonyms for Stiff?

Common alternatives include rigid, hard, tense, inflexible, unyielding.

What is the opposite of Stiff?

Opposite meanings include flexible, limber, soft.

What words go with Stiff?

It commonly pairs with be, feel, lie, extremely, fairly, very, with, (as) stiff as a board, be, feel, get, extremely, fairly, very, from, be, seem, extremely, fairly, very, be, look, seem, extremely, fairly, very, be, seem, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Stiff?

Confused with 'stave' as in to prevent something. Using 'stiff' to describe something that is simply cold without context. Misunderstanding 'stiff' as only referring to physical rigidity.

How do you pronounce Stiff?

US: /["/stɪf/"]/, UK: /["/stɪf/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Stiff?

Used to describe something that is rigid or difficult to bend; also can describe a person who is not relaxed in behavior. Avoid in very casual conversations when referring to people.

What CEFR level is Stiff?

"Stiff" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.