What are the definitions of “stick by”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Support someone when they are having difficulties.
No one STUCK BY him when the scandal became public.
- 2Support a plan, opinion or decision.
They are STICKING BY their claims.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stick by”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stick by is to support someone when they are having difficulties or to support a plan, opinion, or decision. It means to remain loyal and committed to someone or something, even in challenging situations.
What are the different verb forms of “stick by”?
| Root Verb | stick by |
| Third Person Singular Present | sticks by |
| Present Participle | sticking by |
| Simple Past | stuck by |
| Past Participle | stuck by |
Example
I will always stick by my friends, no matter what.
Example
She sticks by her family through thick and thin.
Example
He is sticking by his decision, despite the criticism.
Example
They stuck by each other during the difficult times.
Example
She has always stuck by her beliefs, even when it was unpopular.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stick by”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“stick by” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
He stuck by his friend during the tough times.
Example
She stuck by her decision, even when others disagreed.
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
“stick by” 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 stuck by his friend during the tough times.
Example
She stuck by her decision, even when others disagreed.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stick by”?
Stick by someone's side
To remain close to and support someone, especially during difficult times.
Example
She stuck by her husband's side throughout his illness.
Stick by a promise
To remain committed to fulfilling a promise made to someone.
Example
He stuck by his promise to help her with the project.
Stick by a principle
To remain committed to a particular belief or value.
Example
They stuck by their principles, even when it was difficult.
Good things to know
Does “stick by” have an informal or formal tone?
Stick by is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
