What does the phrasal verb “stop behind” mean?

What are the definitions of “stop behind”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Stay somewhere when other people leave.

  I STOPPED BEHIND at the end of the lecture to ask a couple of questions.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stop behind”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stop behind is to stay somewhere when other people leave. It often refers to remaining in a place after an event or gathering has ended, usually to complete a task or ask questions.

What are the different verb forms of “stop behind”?

Root Verb	stop behind
Third Person Singular Present	stops behind
Present Participle	stopping behind
Simple Past	stopped behind
Past Participle	stopped behind

Example

She decided to stop behind after the meeting to discuss some issues.

Example

He often stops behind after class to ask the teacher questions.

Example

They are stopping behind to help clean up after the party.

Example

Yesterday, I stopped behind to finish my work before leaving the office.

Example

She had stopped behind to talk to the professor after the lecture.

What kind of phrasal verb is “stop behind”?

📝

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

“stop behind” 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

He stopped behind to ask the teacher a question.

Example

She stopped behind after the meeting to discuss some issues.

📝

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

“stop behind” 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

He stopped behind to ask the teacher a question.

Example

She stopped behind after the meeting to discuss some issues.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stop behind”?

Stop behind someone

To follow someone closely, usually in a vehicle.

Example

The police car stopped behind the suspect's vehicle, waiting for backup.

Stop behind a line

To halt or pause before crossing a specific boundary or line.

Example

The runners stopped behind the starting line, waiting for the signal to begin the race.

Stop behind a barrier

To cease movement before reaching a physical obstacle or barrier.

Example

The car stopped behind the closed gate, waiting for it to open.

Good things to know

Does “stop behind” have an informal or formal tone?

Stop behind 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 academic or professional environments.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “stop behind”?

Synonyms

• stay
• remain
• wait
• linger
• pause
• tarry

Antonyms

• leave
• depart
• exit
• go
• move
• continue