Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To tolerate or bear; to allow something to happen or exist without objection. This meaning implies a limit of patience or acceptance.
   • To be a symbol or sign for; to represent. This meaning indicates that one thing serves as a sign, abbreviation, or emblem for another.
   • To advocate for or support a principle or idea. This meaning indicates active representation of a belief or cause.

Usage

• The verb "stand for" is typically used with an object (it is transitive).
• It is often used in negative constructions (e.g., "I won't stand for...") when meaning "to tolerate."
• When meaning "to represent," it is commonly used in explanations of acronyms, symbols, or principles.

Examples

• Meaning: To tolerate

  • The teacher said she would not stand for any more talking during the exam.
  • I refuse to stand for such rude behavior in my house.

• Meaning: To represent / be a symbol for

  • In this equation, the variable 'x' stands for the unknown quantity.
  • The acronym "UN" stands for the United Nations.
  • The olive branch stands for peace.

• Meaning: To advocate for

  • This political party stands for lower taxes and individual freedom.
  • Our organization stands for equality and justice for all.

Advanced Usage

• "What do you stand for?": A question asking about a person's core principles or values.

  • During the interview, they asked me what I stand for as a leader.

• "Not stand for something": To refuse to accept or allow something.

  • She has made it clear she will not stand for any delays.

Variants and Related Words

• Symbolize (verb): To be a symbol of something. (e.g., )
• Represent (verb): To stand for, depict, or act on behalf of. (e.g., )
• Endure (verb): To suffer patiently; to tolerate (closer to the "bear" meaning). (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Tolerate: Allow the existence or occurrence of without interference.
• Signify: Be an indication of; represent.
• Denote: Be a sign of; stand as a name or symbol for.
• Advocate: Publicly recommend or support.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Stand by: To be ready for action, or to remain loyal to someone or something.

  • The crew was asked to stand by for launch.
  • I will stand by you no matter what.

• Stand up for: To defend or support a person or idea.

  • You must learn to stand up for your rights.

Related Idioms

• Stand for office: To be a candidate in an election.

  • She decided to stand for office in the upcoming election.

• It stands to reason: It is logical or obvious.

  • It stands to reason that if you study more, you will get better grades.

Verb

1. tolerate or bear
   • I won't stand for this kind of behavior!
2. take the place of or be parallel or equivalent to
   • Because of the sound changes in the course of history, an 'h' in Greek stands for an 's' in Latin
3. denote or connote
   • `maison' means `house' in French
   • An example sentence would show what this word means
4. express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
   • What does the Statue of Liberty symbolize?