What are the definitions of “stay on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Remain longer than anticipated.
She STAYED ON after she graduated to do a Master's degree.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stay on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stay on is to remain in a place or continue doing something longer than expected or planned. For example, it can mean staying at a job or school longer than originally intended.
What are the different verb forms of “stay on”?
| Root Verb | stay on |
| Third Person Singular Present | stays on |
| Present Participle | staying on |
| Simple Past | stayed on |
| Past Participle | stayed on |
Example
She decided to stay on at the company after her internship ended.
Example
He stays on at work late to finish his tasks.
Example
They are staying on at the party longer than they planned.
Example
Last night, we stayed on at the restaurant to chat with friends.
Example
She had stayed on at the school to complete her Master's degree.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stay on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“stay on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He stayed on at the company for a few more years.
Example
She stayed on at the party until midnight.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“stay on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He stayed on at the company for a few more years.
Example
She stayed on at the party until midnight.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stay on”?
Stay on track
To continue making progress or following a plan without deviation.
Example
We need to stay on track to finish the project on time.
Stay on top of something
To be well-informed and up-to-date about a particular subject or task.
Example
She stays on top of the latest news in her industry.
Stay on one's toes
To remain alert and prepared for any situation.
Example
You have to stay on your toes when working in a fast-paced environment.
Good things to know
Does “stay on” have an informal or formal tone?
Stay on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in academic or professional environments.
