Phrases & Expressions

To move one step or a short distance to the front.

• When your name is called, please step forward.
• The winner stepped forward to receive her prize.

To become involved in a difficult situation in order to help or stop it.

• The manager stepped in to settle the argument between the two employees.
• When my parents could not help, my uncle stepped in and paid the bill.

To leave a place briefly.

• She stepped out for a moment.
• The manager has just stepped out, but she will be back soon.

To take on more responsibility or a more important role.

• He stepped up to lead the team.
• When the manager left, Sarah stepped up and kept the project going.

To stay together and support each other, especially in difficult times.

• In difficult times, friends should stick together.
• Let's stick together during the event.

To continue doing or using something and not give up or change it.

• Stick with it, you'll improve.
• I'll stick with my old phone.

To buy a large quantity of something to keep for future use.

• We need to stock up on food for the winter.
• Stock up on water and batteries before the storm.

To make a brief visit to a place or person.

• Why don't you stop by?
• Stop by my office on your way home.

To stay for a short time in a place during a longer journey.

• We will stop over in Dubai on our way to London.
• We stopped over in Singapore for two nights.

To make something tidy, organized, or correct.

• Please straighten out these papers.
• It took an hour to straighten out the mess in the kitchen.