What are the definitions of “stick to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not change.
The Prime Minister decided to STICK TO the original plan despite the criticism in the media.
- 2Restrict or limit and not change.
I STUCK TO the path and didn't take the shortcut.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stick to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stick to is to not change something, such as a plan, decision, or path. It means to continue doing something as planned or agreed, even if it is difficult or others disagree.
What are the different verb forms of “stick to”?
| Root Verb | stick to |
| Third Person Singular Present | sticks to |
| Present Participle | sticking to |
| Simple Past | stuck to |
| Past Participle | stuck to |
Example
I always stick to my workout routine, even on weekends.
Example
She sticks to her diet, no matter how tempting the desserts are.
Example
He is sticking to his study schedule to prepare for the exam.
Example
They stuck to their plan, despite the challenges they faced.
Example
The team stuck to their strategy and won the game.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stick to”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“stick to” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She stuck to her decision.
Example
He stuck to the original plan.
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 to” 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
She stuck to her decision.
Example
He stuck to the original plan.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stick to”?
Good things to know
Does “stick to” have an informal or formal tone?
Stick to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
