1 A2 neutral
To be an abbreviation or symbol for a longer word, name, or idea.
"The letters 'UN' stand for United Nations."
inseparable
stand for
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To represent or symbolize something, to tolerate behavior, or to be a candidate in an election.
In plain English
To mean something, to allow bad behavior, or to try to get elected.
What does "stand for" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic neutral
To represent a particular set of values, principles, or beliefs.
"Our organization stands for equality, justice, and human rights."
“
Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.
— John F. Kennedy, Inaugural Address, 1961
inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral
To accept or tolerate bad behavior — almost always used in the negative.
"I will not stand for rudeness in this classroom."
inseparable
4 B2 idiomatic neutral
(British English) To be a candidate in an election.
"She decided to stand for parliament at the next general election."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To physically stand in front of or in place of something.
Actually means
To mean something, to allow bad behavior, or to try to get elected.
Usage tip
The 'abbreviation' sense (e.g., 'NASA stands for National Aeronautics and Space Administration') is extremely common and is introduced at A2 level. The 'tolerate' sense is almost always negative. The 'run for election' sense is primarily British English.
Words that pair with "stand for"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
values abbreviation election principle behavior nonsense
How to conjugate "stand for"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
stand for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
stands for
he/she/it
Past simple
stood for
yesterday
Past participle
stood for
have + pp
-ing form
standing for
continuous
Hear "stand for" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "stand for" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "stand for"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
endorse mean represent run for symbolize tolerate
Keep exploring
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