Expressions with STAY
Expressions with the word “stay” are commonly used in English to describe various situations related to remaining or continuing in a place, state, or condition. The word “stay” can be used in a wide range of contexts and paired with different verbs, nouns and prepositions to form set expressions with distinct meanings. In this article, we will examine some of the most common expressions with “stay” in English, looking at their meanings and examples of how they are used in sentences. Becoming familiar with these phrases can help improve your vocabulary and ability to communicate effectively in English.
Expressions with STAY
stay awake
Meaning: Not go to sleep or not be able to sleep.
Example: If I drink coffee now I’ll stay awake all night!
This expression is used to indicate that someone will intentionally not go to sleep, or will have difficulty sleeping, often because they are not tired or have had a stimulant like coffee or energy drinks. It emphasizes wakefulness and an avoidance of sleep.
stay behind
Meaning: Remain somewhere when everyone else has left.
Example: You can all leave now. I’ll stay behind and finish up.
“Stay behind” suggests that while others are departing, one person intends to remain in a place to complete a task or for another reason. It’s often used when a group is leaving a location but an individual will continue working or waiting there temporarily.
stay clear of
Meaning: Avoid something unpleasant or dangerous, or that may cause problems.
Example: You’d better stay clear of the boss today. He’s in a bad mood!
This expression indicates actively avoiding or steering clear of a person, situation or thing that could have negative consequences. It implies intentional distancing oneself from something potentially problematic or harmful.
stay the course
Meaning: Persevere and finish something you have started in spite of the difficulties.
Example: His speech was motivation for us to stay the course and ensure success.
“Stay the course” means to continue on a path in spite of challenges, setbacks and hardships. It suggests an attitude of resilience, commitment and determination to follow through in order to achieve a goal and not abandon one’s efforts.
stay focused
Meaning: Concentrate on what you are doing and not become distracted by anything.
Example: We must stay focused if we want to meet the deadline.
The phrase “stay focused” means maintaining attention, concentration and diligence on the task or subject at hand without allowing outside distractions to interfere with or fragment one’s attention. It’s often used as advice to maintain clear direction and productivity.
stay in the loop/stay in the know
Meaning: Be informed about the most recent developments; be aware of what is happening.
Example: Make sure the new intern stays in the loop about the project.
Both “stay in the loop” and “stay in the know” indicate keeping up-to-date and knowledgeable about current news related to a particular topic or situation. They suggest actively seeking out and remaining informed so as not to be unaware of recent information.
stay overnight/stay the night
Meaning: Sleep at somebody’s house for one night.
Example: You can always stay overnight/stay the night at our house.
These identical expressions describe spending the night as a guest in someone else’s home instead of returning to one’s own home. They imply a short-term, one-night stay rather than an extended visit.
stay in touch
Meaning: Remain in contact with someone.
Example: We said goodbye and promised to stay in touch.
“Stay in touch” refers to maintaining communication with someone, especially after a period of separation, through actions like talking, writing, texting, emailing or visiting. It suggests a mutual interest in preserving a connection.
stay on top of things
Meaning: Work efficiently so as not to fall behind or lose control of your workload.
Example: Charlie will need to stay on top of things if he wants to succeed!
This phrase means remaining aware of one’s responsibilities and commitments and handling them in a timely, proactive way. It implies being organized, proactive and in control rather than complacent or overwhelmed as responsibilities build up.
stay on track
Meaning: Stick to what was planned in order to progress or produce good results.
Example: It’s important that we all stay on track if we’re to meet our annual quota.
“Stay on track” suggests pursuing a goal according to a plan or schedule and not deviating from the expected course despite obstacles or disruptions. It means not losing sight of goals or wasting time so that forward momentum continues.
stay put/stay still
Meaning: Remain in one place; not move.
Example: Sit over there and stay put/stay still.
These expressions mean to not leave or move from where you are. They imply remaining stationary and not wandering off or being distracted from a location. “Stay put” suggests obedience and acquiescence while “stay still” conveys immobility.
stay together
Meaning: Remain with another person or stay married or in a relationship.
Example: I don’t know why they stay together; they’re always fighting!
This phrase describes an ongoing relationship or marriage that continues despite difficulties, conflicts or challenges that arise. It suggests a couple choosing to not separate or divorce in spite of complicating factors.
stay tuned
Meaning: Continue paying attention or being watchful because something more is coming (e.g. on television).
Example: Stay tuned and find out more after the break!
The expression “stay tuned” indicates that something else of interest is coming up and the audience/listeners should keep their attention on the programming. It builds anticipation and signals important content ahead.
stay up late
Meaning: Go to bed later than usual.
Example: Tony stayed up late to watch the match.
This simply means remaining awake and active beyond one’s normal bedtime. It suggests voluntarily delaying going to bed and sleeping.
stay up to date
Meaning: Continue receiving the latest information about the most recent trends or developments.
Example: My dad reads the newspaper every day to stay up to date.
“Stay up to date” means making an effort to keep current and informed about new innovations, discoveries, knowledge or events related to a field or area of interest. It implies seeking out fresh information consistently.
be here to stay
Meaning: Something that is now generally accepted and is likely to last for a long time.
Example: It seems that blogs/talk shows/online courses are here to stay and add value to people’s lives.
This expression describes something that has become well established enough that it is expected to have lasting importance, influence and acceptance. It suggests something is not just a passing fad but has an enduring role.
Conclusion
Expressions using “stay” are very common in everyday English speech and writing. As we have seen, they can describe a wide range of situations and actions related to remaining in place, continuing in a state or preserving relationships. Learning these phrases can enrich your vocabulary and help you communicate more clearly and naturally in English. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to stay in the know, stay focused, stay on track, and stay in touch as you continue improving your English skills.