# stick around

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stick-around
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to stay in a place for a little longer, often while waiting for something to happen.

For teachers: to remain in a location or situation rather than departing. This phrasal verb is intransitive and typically implies a period of waiting or a casual decision to stay.

## Examples

- If you stick around after the show, you can meet the band.
- I'm going to stick around for another ten minutes to see if the rain stops.
- Although most guests departed immediately after the ceremony, a few close friends decided to stick around and help the hosts clear the venue.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I will stick around the party." but "I will stick around at the party." — as an intransitive phrasal verb, it cannot take a direct object; a preposition like 'at' or 'for' is required to link it to a location or event.

## Usage notes

- used without an object; often followed by 'for' to indicate a duration or 'to' for a purpose.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'stay', which is more neutral; 'stick around' suggests a more informal, temporary, or spontaneous choice to remain.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.