Browse all

stand between

B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To block or protect someone from getting to something.

Literal meaning: To physically position oneself in the space between two things or people.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To physically position oneself in the space separating two people or things.

"She stood between her two arguing brothers, trying to calm them down."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To act as an obstacle that prevents someone from achieving or obtaining something.

"His lack of a university degree was the only thing standing between him and his dream job."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral

To protect someone from harm or danger by placing oneself in the way.

"The soldier stood between the civilians and the advancing threat."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Can describe either a positive role (protecting someone) or a negative role (preventing someone from achieving something). Context determines the tone.

Commonly used with

danger success goal dream harm person

Forms

Base
stand between
I/you/we/they
3rd person
stands between
he/she/it
Past simple
stood between
yesterday
Past participle
stood between
have + pp
-ing form
standing between
continuous

Understand "stand between" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

separate divide protect shield obstruct intervene

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "stand between" on Looplines