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Phrasal verbs "stay off" vs "stay on"

Differences between stay off and stay on

Stay off means to avoid or not use something, while stay on means to continue doing something or to remain in a particular state.

Meanings and Definitions: stay off vs stay on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Stay off

  • 1To not go to or be absent from work.

    I daren’t stay off work.

  • 2To remain at a lower weight or level.

    Let’s make sure those pounds stay off.

  • 3Avoid or refrain from.

    The best advice is to stay off alcohol altogether.

Stay on

  • 1Remain longer than anticipated.

    She STAYED ON after she graduated to do a Master's degree.

Usage Examples: stay off, stay on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

stay off

Example

I decided to stay off social media for a week.

Example

She stays off caffeine to avoid feeling jittery.

stay on

Example

She decided to stay on at the company after her internship ended.

Example

He stays on at work late to finish his tasks.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stay off

keep away from

To avoid or stay away from someone or something.

Example

He decided to keep away from alcohol after realizing its negative effects on his health.

steer clear of

To avoid or stay away from a person, place, or situation that could be problematic or dangerous.

Example

She always steers clear of the park at night due to safety concerns.

refrain from

To avoid or abstain from doing something, especially something considered wrong or harmful.

Example

He promised to refrain from smoking to improve his overall health.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stay on

keep going

To continue doing something without stopping or giving up.

Example

Despite the challenges, she decided to keep going and eventually achieved her goal.

stick with it

To continue doing something despite difficulties or setbacks.

Example

He encouraged his friend to stick with it and not give up on their dream of starting a business.

persevere

To persist in doing something despite obstacles or challenges.

Example

She had to persevere through many rejections before finally getting her book published.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in stay off vs stay on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: stay off or stay on?

In daily conversation, people use stay on more often than stay off. This is because stay on is used for more positive situations such as continuing a task or staying in a good mood. Stay off is used less frequently and usually in negative contexts such as avoiding bad habits or dangerous areas.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stay off and stay on

Stay off and stay on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stay off and stay on

The tone of stay off and stay on can differ based on context. Stay off often carries a warning or negative tone when related to avoiding something harmful or unwanted, while stay on typically has a positive and encouraging tone, especially when referring to continuing a task or maintaining a good state.

stay off & stay on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stay off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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