English Reference

Phrasal verb

stick with

Definition

phrasal verb. to continue doing something or using something, even when it is difficult or you have other choices.

phrasal verb. to persevere with a task, plan, or habit; to remain loyal to a person or a specific choice rather than switching to an alternative.

Examples

“If you stick with the diet, you will see results.”

“Although the new software was difficult to learn at first, he decided to stick with it until he was an expert.”

“The CEO urged the shareholders to stick with the current strategy despite the volatile market conditions and temporary dip in quarterly profits.”

Examples

simple

“If you stick with the diet, you will see results.”

contextual

“Although the new software was difficult to learn at first, he decided to stick with it until he was an expert.”

complex

“The CEO urged the shareholders to stick with the current strategy despite the volatile market conditions and temporary dip in quarterly profits.”

Usage

always followed by an object, which can be a person, a plan, a choice, or a task.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'stick to' (often used for rules or paths); 'stick with' implies a sense of companionship or staying by something's side through a process.

Pitfall

I will stick it with.

I will stick with it.

this phrasal verb is inseparable; the object must follow the particle 'with'.

Phrasal verb

Particles

with

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

stick + with + object

Synonyms

stay withkeep topersistpersevere

Antonyms

give upabandonswitch

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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