Definition

1. Noun:
   • A rationalized mental attitude; a position or viewpoint on a particular issue: A person's "stance" is their settled opinion or policy regarding a subject, often formed after consideration.
   • A standing posture, especially in sports: The way a person stands, particularly the position of the feet and body when preparing to perform an action in activities like golf, cricket, or martial arts.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Mental Attitude):
  • The politician clarified her stance on environmental regulations.
  • His conservative stance on economic issues is well-known.
• Noun (Physical Posture):
  • The golfer adjusted his stance before taking the swing.
  • A wide, balanced stance is crucial for a boxer.

Advanced Usage

• "To take a stance": To adopt or declare a position on an issue.
  • The company was pressured to take a stance on social justice.
• "Hardline stance": An uncompromising or very strict position.
  • The government maintained a hardline stance against the protesters.

Variants and Related Words

• Stanchion (n): An upright bar, post, or support (a different word, but sometimes confused due to similar spelling).
• Stand (n/v): While related, "stand" is more general for both physical upright position and a viewpoint (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Position: A person's particular point of view or attitude.
• Posture: Both a physical way of standing and an attitude or approach.
• Attitude: A settled way of thinking or feeling.

Related Phrases

• Public stance: A position that is openly declared or known.
  • The celebrity's public stance on the matter influenced many fans.

Idioms

• (Adopt/Assume) a defensive stance: To take a position intended to defend against criticism or attack, either physically or in debate.
  • When questioned, the spokesperson immediately adopted a defensive stance.

Noun

1. a rationalized mental attitude
2. standing posture