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stick by

B2 neutral inseparable transitive

In simple words

Stay loyal to someone or continue to support what you decided, even when it's hard.

Literal meaning: To physically remain beside someone.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

common

To remain loyal to someone through difficulty or controversy.

"Her family stuck by her even when the whole community turned against her."

Grammar: inseparable

2 B2 idiomatic neutral

common

To continue to support or maintain a decision, statement, or position.

"Despite the criticism, the government stuck by its original plan."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Often used to describe loyalty to friends, family, or decisions under pressure. 'Stick by someone' and 'stick by a decision' are both common patterns.

Commonly used with

friend decision choice partner promise statement

Forms

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

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Synonyms

stand by support back up be loyal to remain faithful to uphold

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