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stand up for

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To say or do something to help and protect someone or something when others are being unfair to them.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic neutral

To speak or act in defense of a person who is being treated unfairly.

"I'm glad you stood up for me when they were blaming me for the mistake."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic neutral

To defend a principle, right, or belief when it is under threat.

"We must stand up for freedom of the press, even when it is inconvenient."

"You have to stand up for what you believe in, even if it's not popular."

— Rosa Parks, commonly attributed in multiple interviews and biographies
Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral

(Reflexive) To assert oneself and refuse to accept unfair treatment.

"It's time you stood up for yourself and told your boss that you deserve a raise."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

One of the most common and important phrasal verbs at B1 level. Very frequently used in both personal and political contexts. The reflexive form ('stand up for yourself') is especially common.

Commonly used with

rights yourself beliefs principles friend others

Forms

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

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Synonyms

defend support advocate for champion protect back up

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