Differences between stick out and stick up
Stick out means to protrude or extend beyond a surface or area, while stick up means to stand upright or to rob someone at gunpoint.
Meanings and Definitions: stick out vs stick up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Stick up
- 1Stand on end.
The static electricity made my hair STICK UP.
- 2Rob using weapons.
They STUCK the bank UP and stole tens of thousands.
Usage Examples: stick out, stick up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
stick out
Example
Her bright red dress sticks out in the crowd.
Example
His unusual hairstyle sticks out among his friends.
stick up
Example
My hair always sticks up after I take off my hat.
Example
His hair sticks up when he uses too much hair gel.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stick out
To extend beyond a surface or area.
Example
The nail was sticking out of the wall, so I hammered it back in.
stand out
To be noticeable or prominent.
Example
Her bright red dress made her stand out in the crowd.
To be easily seen or noticed.
Example
The tall building was conspicuous among the smaller ones in the area.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stick up
hold up
To rob someone at gunpoint.
Example
The convenience store was held up by two masked men last night.
To attack and rob someone in a public place.
Example
He was mugged on his way home from work and lost his wallet and phone.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “stick”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in stick out vs stick up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: stick out or stick up?
In everyday conversation, stick out is more common than stick up. Stick out is used in various contexts, such as describing physical appearance or identifying an object. On the other hand, stick up is less common and is mainly used when talking about robbery or theft.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stick out and stick up
Stick out and stick up are both informal phrases. However, stick up is more associated with criminal activity and is not suitable for formal settings. Stick out can be used in casual conversations but may not be appropriate in professional or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stick out and stick up
The tone of stick out and stick up is quite different. Stick out has a neutral or descriptive tone, while stick up has a negative or threatening tone.
