1 B1 neutral
To remain in a job, role, or organization longer than originally planned
"The manager was asked to stay on for an extra year while they searched for a replacement."
stay on
B1 neutral intransitive
To remain in a place, job, or situation longer than planned or after others have left
In plain English
To stay in a place or job longer than you were supposed to
What does "stay on" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To remain at a place or continue a stay beyond the expected time
"We liked the town so much that we decided to stay on for another week."
3 B1 neutral
(British English, education) To continue studying after the minimum school-leaving age
"Not all students choose to stay on for sixth form; some prefer to start an apprenticeship."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To stay (remain) on — continuing in the same place or position
Actually means
To stay in a place or job longer than you were supposed to
Usage tip
Common in British English, particularly regarding employment, education, and travel. 'Staying on' at school in British English refers to continuing in the sixth form (ages 16–18) rather than leaving at 16. Also used when someone extends their time in a location or role.
Words that pair with "stay on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
job school sixth form longer after manager staff
How to conjugate "stay on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
stay on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
stays on
he/she/it
Past simple
stayed on
yesterday
Past participle
stayed on
have + pp
-ing form
staying on
continuous
Hear "stay on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "stay on"
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Keep exploring
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