Cool MateStanding
UK /["/ˈstændɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈstændɪŋ/"]/
Definition
done from a position in which you are standing rather than sitting or running
In simple words: The action of being on your feet.
Examples
- a **standing jump/start**
- The speaker got a **standing ovation** *(= people stood up to clap after the speech)*.
- a standing army
- a **standing charge** *(= an amount of money that you pay regularly in order to use a service, such as gas or water)*
- a **standing committee**
- It’s a **standing joke** *(= something that a group of people regularly laugh at)*.
- We have a **standing invitation** to visit them anytime.
- The space project went from a standing start to the moon in ten years.
Usage notes
Use 'standing' when describing a physical position, often in formal contexts. It's not common in informal speech.
Grammar pattern
stand + position
Memory hint
Think of 'stand'—imagine a person standing tall like a statue.
Collocations
- standing ovation
- standing tall
- standing invitation
Synonyms
- upright
- vertical
- erect
Antonyms
- sitting
- lying
Common mistakes
- 'Standing' confused with 'standby' when referring to waiting.
- Using 'standing' when 'stand' is needed, e.g. 'I want to standing.' instead of 'I want to stand.'
- Mixing 'standing' with other forms incorrectly, like saying 'I was standinged.'