A1verb1K

Sit

UK /["/sɪt/","/sɪts/","/sæt/","/ˈsɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/sɪt/","/sɪts/","/sæt/","/ˈsɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to rest your weight on your bottom with your back straight, for example on/in a chair

In simple words: To be in a position with your bottom on a surface.

Examples

  • Please sit down and make yourself comfortable.
  • I like to sit by the window when I read.
  • The cat will sit on my lap if I let it.
  • They asked me to sit in the front row during the show.
  • After dinner, we usually sit around the table and chat.
  • The committee will sit together to discuss the new policy.
  • She will sit for her final exams next week.
  • He likes to sit on the grass in the park.

Usage notes

Use 'sit' in most contexts. It's neutral and appropriate for both casual and formal settings. Avoid using it in overly formal writing where a more specific term like 'recline' may be preferred.

Grammar pattern

sit + adverbial (e.g., 'sit quietly')

Memory hint

Think of a chair that's waiting — you 'sit' in it.

Collocations

  • motionless
  • still
  • quietly
  • let somebody
  • gesture for somebody to
  • gesture to somebody to
  • against
  • around
  • astride
  • a place to sit
  • sit down (with somebody)
  • sit and…

Synonyms

  • perch
  • rest
  • seat
  • park

Antonyms

  • stand
  • rise

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'set', e.g., using 'set' when referring to oneself sitting.
  • Using 'sitting' as a noun incorrectly, e.g., saying 'have a sitting' instead of 'have a seat'.