Definition

Verb: * To remain in a place or situation, especially in order to be available, to wait, or to see what happens next. It implies staying when one might otherwise leave.

Usage

The phrasal verb "stick about" is used to describe the action of staying in a location or remaining involved in a situation. It is often informal and suggests a patient or expectant presence. * It is commonly used in British and Australian English. * It is typically followed by an adverbial phrase (e.g., for a while, until something happens) or can stand alone if the context is clear.

Examples

• "The meeting is over, but I'll stick about in case anyone has questions."
• "You should stick about; the main act will be on stage soon."
• "I don't know what his plans are, but he said he'd stick about for a few more days."

Advanced Usage

• "Stick about and...": Used to encourage someone to stay for a specific reason or outcome.
  • "Stick about and you might learn something useful."
• It can imply loyalty or willingness to help in an uncertain situation.
  • "Things are chaotic now, but a good friend will stick about."

Variants and Related Words

• Stick around: A more common synonym, especially in American English, with identical meaning.
  • "Stick around, I'll be right back."
• Hang about / Hang around: Very similar informal synonyms meaning to wait or spend time in a place.
• Remain: A more formal, single-word synonym.
• Linger: To stay in a place longer than necessary, often reluctantly or aimlessly (carries a slightly different nuance).

Synonyms

• Stay
• Wait
• Remain
• Linger
• Loom (archaic in this sense)

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Stick around: (As noted above) To remain in a place.
• Hang on: To wait, especially on the telephone. ()
• Stay put: To remain in one fixed place and not move. ()

Related Idioms

• To be on standby: To be ready and available if needed.
• To wait and see: To stay in a situation until future events become clear.

Verb

1. be available or ready for a certain function or service