What are the definitions of “stick up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stand on end.
The static electricity made my hair STICK UP.
- 2Rob using weapons.
They STUCK the bank UP and stole tens of thousands.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stick up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stick up is to stand on end, usually referring to hair or other objects that are pointing upwards. For example, when you wake up in the morning, your hair might stick up because it is messy.
What are the different verb forms of “stick up”?
| Root Verb | stick up |
| Third Person Singular Present | sticks up |
| Present Participle | sticking up |
| Simple Past | stuck up |
| Past Participle | stuck 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.
Example
The cat's fur is sticking up because it got scared.
Example
After the wind blew, her hair stuck up in all directions.
Example
The papers were stuck up on the wall with tape.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stick up”?
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 up” 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
Her hair stuck up after she rubbed a balloon on it.
Example
The nails stuck up from the floor, making it dangerous to walk on.
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 up” 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
Her hair stuck up after she rubbed a balloon on it.
Example
The nails stuck up from the floor, making it dangerous to walk on.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stick up”?
Stick up a place
Rob a place, usually using weapons.
Example
The robbers stuck up the bank and escaped with the money.
Good things to know
Does “stick up” have an informal or formal tone?
Stick up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In formal settings, it is better to use alternative words or phrases, such as 'stand on end' for hair or objects, or 'defend' when referring to supporting someone.
