What are the definitions of “stick around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stay in a place for some time.
He's late, but I'll STICK AROUND for another few minutes before I leave.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stick around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stick around is to stay in a place for some time, usually waiting for something or someone. For example, it can mean waiting for a friend who is late or staying at a party longer than planned.
What are the different verb forms of “stick around”?
| Root Verb | stick around |
| Third Person Singular Present | sticks around |
| Present Participle | sticking around |
| Simple Past | stuck around |
| Past Participle | stuck around |
Example
I always stick around after class to ask the teacher questions.
Example
She sticks around the office after work to finish her tasks.
Example
He is sticking around the park, waiting for his friends to arrive.
Example
Yesterday, they stuck around the mall for a few hours.
Example
We stuck around the party longer than we expected.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stick around”?
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
“stick around” 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 stick around and see what happens.
Example
She stuck around even though she was tired.
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
“stick around” 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 stick around and see what happens.
Example
She stuck around even though she was tired.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stick around”?
Good things to know
Does “stick around” have an informal or formal tone?
Stick around is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, alternatives such as 'stay' or 'remain' may be more appropriate.
