What does the phrasal verb “stay in” mean?

What are the definitions of “stay in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Not go out.

  I'm going to STAY IN and chill tonight, I can't be bothered to go out.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stay in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stay in is to not go out and remain at home or indoors. It is often used when someone prefers to relax at home instead of going out for social activities or events.

What are the different verb forms of “stay in”?

Root Verb	stay in
Third Person Singular Present	stays in
Present Participle	staying in
Simple Past	stayed in
Past Participle	stayed in

Example

I usually stay in on weekdays to save money.

Example

She stays in most nights to study for her exams.

Example

He is staying in tonight to watch a movie with his family.

Example

We stayed in last night and played board games.

Example

They had stayed in all weekend to finish their project.

What kind of phrasal verb is “stay in”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“stay in” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I decided to stay in and read a book.

Example

She stayed in to catch up on her favorite TV show.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“stay in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

I decided to stay in and read a book.

Example

She stayed in to catch up on her favorite TV show.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stay in”?

Stay in touch

To maintain communication with someone, even if you don't see them often.

Example

Let's stay in touch after graduation.

Stay in the loop

To remain informed about something or to be included in the decision-making process.

Example

Please keep me in the loop about any updates on the project.

Stay in shape

To maintain a good level of physical fitness.

Example

I exercise regularly to stay in shape.

Good things to know

Does “stay in” have an informal or formal tone?

Stay in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “stay in”?

Synonyms

• remain indoors
• not go out
• stay home
• stay at home

Antonyms

• leave
• go out
• venture out
• head out