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Phrasal verbs "stand out" vs "stick out"

Differences between stand out and stick out

Stand out and stick out are similar in meaning, but there is a subtle difference between them. Stand out means to be easily noticeable or to be different from others in a positive way, while stick out means to protrude or extend beyond a surface.

Meanings and Definitions: stand out vs stick out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Stand out

  • 1Be extraordinary and different.

    She STOOD OUT from the crowd in selection and was offered the job.

Stick out

  • 1Be easily noticed.

    He's so much better than the others that he STICKS OUT.

  • 2Extend part of your body.

    He STUCK his tongue OUT at me.

  • 3Continue doing something difficult or unpleasant.

    I STUCK it OUT even though I hated every minute of it.

Usage Examples: stand out, stick out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

stand out

Example

Her bright red dress made her stand out in the crowd.

Example

His talent for painting stands out among his peers.

stick out

Example

Her bright red dress sticks out in the crowd.

Example

His unusual hairstyle sticks out among his friends.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand out

catch one's eye

To attract one's attention or interest.

Example

Her bright red dress caught my eye as soon as she entered the room.

be in a league of one's own

To be far superior or exceptional compared to others in the same category.

Example

His innovative approach to problem-solving puts him in a league of his own among his colleagues.

make a splash

To create a strong impression or impact, especially in a public setting.

Example

The new product launch made a splash in the market and generated a lot of buzz.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stick out

protrude

To extend or jut out beyond a surface.

Example

The nail was sticking out of the wall, so I hammered it back in.

be conspicuous

To be easily noticeable or visible.

Example

The bright yellow sign was conspicuous even from a distance.

be obtrusive

To be intrusive or annoyingly noticeable.

Example

The large billboard was obtrusive and blocked the view of the scenic landscape.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “stick”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in stand out vs stick out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: stand out or stick out?

In everyday conversation, stand out is more common than stick out. This is because stand out is used more frequently in various contexts such as fashion, sports, and job interviews. On the other hand, stick out is mainly used to describe physical objects that protrude from a surface.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stand out and stick out

Stand out and stick out are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, stand out can also be used in formal settings such as academic or professional contexts to describe exceptional performance or achievements.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stand out and stick out

The tone of stand out and stick out can differ based on context. Stand out often carries a positive and admiring tone when referring to someone's unique qualities or talents, while stick out can have a neutral or negative tone, especially when describing something that is unwanted or unsightly.

stand out & stick out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stand out

Synonyms

Antonyms

Stick out

Synonyms

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