Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Understanding 'Stand On': Meaning & Usage

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'stand on' refers to firmly adhering to one's convictions, principles, or ground, particularly in the face of opposition or challenges.

Examples in context

Despite criticism, she continues to stand on her beliefs with unwavering confidence.
He stood on his decision, despite the risks involved, and gained respect for his courage.
They stand on the foundation of their predecessors' work, building future innovations.

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'stand on' refers to firmly adhering to one's convictions, principles, or ground, particularly in the face of opposition or challenges.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

'Stand on' cannot be split by inserting words within the phrasal verb.

Neutral

Appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.

Transitive

Yes

'Stand on' requires an object, such as 'principles' or 'ground'.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	stand on	She stands on her beliefs every day.
Past Simple	stood on	He stood on his decisions yesterday.
Present Continuous	standing on	They are standing on their values despite criticism.
Present Perfect	have stood on	We have stood on our policies since the beginning.

💡 When to Use

In debates or discussions

Use 'stand on' when emphasizing adherence to beliefs during discussions or arguments.

Example: "In the meeting, she stood on her proposal despite opposition."

Determining moral choices

Employ 'stand on' to describe choices based on ethical considerations or principles.

Example: "He stood on his commitment to honesty, refusing to lie."

Expressing resilience

Use 'stand on' to highlight resilience in maintaining beliefs under pressure.

Example: "They stood on their principles, despite societal pressure to conform."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using 'stand' alone

❌ Wrong: He stands his ground.

✅ Correct: He stands on his ground.

💡 Tip: Remember to include 'on' to form the complete phrasal verb.

Incorrect object use

❌ Wrong: She stands on herself.

✅ Correct: She stands on her values.

💡 Tip: Ensure the object relates to beliefs or principles.

Using as intransitive

❌ Wrong: She stands on easily.

✅ Correct: She stands on her decisions easily.

💡 Tip: Always pair with an object like 'decisions' or 'principles'.

Practice

STAND ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

Despite criticism, she continues to stand on her beliefs with unwavering confidence.
How National Parks Came to Be
2
Listen to example

He stood on his decision, despite the risks involved, and gained respect for his courage.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

They stand on the foundation of their predecessors' work, building future innovations.
Bringing Animals Back to Life

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

adhere to uphold

Antonyms

abandon

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Socrates chose to ___ his principles instead of conforming."

sit on

stand on

walk over

move around

"To stand on one's principles is to tread the path less traveled, yet the rewards of authenticity are profound."

In Context

In ancient Athens, Socrates was a philosopher known for questioning conventional wisdom. He stood on his principles, challenging authority and societal norms through dialogues with fellow Athenians. His method of inquiry would later become known as the Socratic method. As he stood on firm ethical ground, he became an iconic example of intellectual honesty and integrity. However, Socrates' relentless questioning of traditions and teachings made him unpopular with the powerful. Consequently, in 399 BC, he was put on trial for corrupting the youth and impiety. Despite the charges, he stood on his ground, refusing to abandon his beliefs even under threat of execution. In his defense, Socrates eloquently articulated his philosophy, stating that the unexamined life was not worth living. His steadfastness in the face of adversity inspired generations to come. Ultimately, Socrates was sentenced to death by hemlock poisoning. Even in his final moments, he stood on his principles, demonstrating courage and adherence to his ideals. His death marked a pivotal moment in history, igniting debates about morality and individual conscience. Thousands of years later, Socrates' legacy endures, reminding us of the power of standing on one's beliefs in the pursuit of truth.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Stand On

What is the origin of 'stand on'?

The expression 'stand on' derives from the Old English standan, meaning to maintain or hold one's position firmly. Historically, it has been used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, symbolizing strength and resolution, especially when upholding principles or ground during challenges or opposition.

Can 'stand on' be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'stand on' is a neutral term, appropriate in both formal and informal settings. It is commonly used in professional environments to indicate adherence to policies or beliefs and in everyday conversations when someone maintains their stance during personal discussions or debates.

What is the difference between 'stand on' and 'adhere to'?

Both 'stand on' and 'adhere to' convey adherence to rules or principles, but 'stand on' emphasizes resistance against opposition, while 'adhere to' implies consistent loyalty without the inherent notion of challenge. 'Stand on' often involves a more active, assertive stance, especially under pressure.

Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs

About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

STAND ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Stand On

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega