A1verb1K

Stand

UK /["/stænd/","/stændz/","/stʊd/","/ˈstændɪŋ/"]/US /["/stænd/","/stændz/","/stʊd/","/ˈstændɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be on your feet; to be in a vertical position

In simple words: to be on your feet in an upright position

Examples

  • I want to stand up and stretch after sitting for so long.
  • Please stand in line and wait for your turn.
  • I can’t believe you would stand there and do nothing.
  • The statue will stand in the park for many years.
  • They decided to stand against the unfair rules at school.
  • Can you tell me where the store stands from here?
  • What does this sign stand for in our community?
  • He made his stand clear during the debate.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, 'stand' is neutral but can be formal in legal or official settings and informal when used conversationally. Avoid using it in overly poetic contexts where 'remain' might fit better.

Grammar pattern

stand + standalone

Memory hint

Think of a soldier standing straight and tall.

Collocations

  • erect
  • tall
  • upright
  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to
  • be left standing
  • stand rooted to the spot
  • erect
  • tall
  • upright
  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to
  • be left standing
  • stand rooted to the spot
  • can
  • cannot
  • can hardly
  • can
  • cannot
  • can hardly
  • successfully
  • unsuccessfully
  • decide to
  • be allowed to
  • against
  • as
  • for
  • somebody’s decision to stand
  • stand for election

Synonyms

  • bear

Antonyms

  • sit
  • lie down
  • crouch

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'stand for' which means to represent something.
  • Using 'stood' incorrectly as the present form in continuous tenses.
  • Mistaking 'stand' for a synonym of 'sit'.