English Reference

Phrasal verb

stand for

Definition

phrasal verb. to represent a word or an idea, or to support a specific set of beliefs.

phrasal verb. to represent or be an abbreviation for something; alternatively, to advocate for or support a particular principle or set of values.

Examples

“What does the 'U' stand for in USA?”

“The party claims to stand for lower taxes and better public services for everyone.”

“In this specific mathematical proof, the Greek letter delta will stand for the change in the variable over time.”

Examples

simple

“What does the 'U' stand for in USA?”

contextual

“The party claims to stand for lower taxes and better public services for everyone.”

complex

“In this specific mathematical proof, the Greek letter delta will stand for the change in the variable over time.”

Usage

inseparable phrasal verb that always takes a direct object.

Teaching tip

distinguish between the literal 'represent' sense (acronyms) and the figurative 'support' sense (values); also note that in the negative, 'won't stand for it' means 'won't tolerate it'.

Pitfall

What is stand for NASA?

What does NASA stand for?

the verb requires the auxiliary 'do' in questions rather than the verb 'to be'.

Phrasal verb

Particles

for

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

stand + for + object

Synonyms

representmeansupportadvocate

Antonyms

opposecontradict

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference