1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To remain loyal to someone through difficulty or controversy.
"Her family stuck by her even when the whole community turned against her."
inseparable
stick by
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To remain loyal to a person or to continue supporting a decision, even when things are difficult.
In plain English
Stay loyal to someone or continue to support what you decided, even when it's hard.
What does "stick by" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To continue to support or maintain a decision, statement, or position.
"Despite the criticism, the government stuck by its original plan."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To physically remain beside someone.
Actually means
Stay loyal to someone or continue to support what you decided, even when it's hard.
Usage tip
Often used to describe loyalty to friends, family, or decisions under pressure. 'Stick by someone' and 'stick by a decision' are both common patterns.
Words that pair with "stick by"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
friend decision choice partner promise statement
How to conjugate "stick by"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
stick by
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sticks by
he/she/it
Past simple
stuck by
yesterday
Past participle
stuck by
have + pp
-ing form
sticking by
continuous
Hear "stick by" in the wild
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Other ways to say "stick by"
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