Irregular verbs  Regular verbs

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stick, sticks, sticking, stuck

Synonyms: adhere, cling, attach, glue, paste

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Antonyms: detach, release, separate, unstick, peel off

The Verb Stick – Definition, Usage, and Clarification


The verb stick is a common irregular verb with several meanings, including to attach something with an adhesive, to push a sharp object into something, and to stay with or persevere at something.


VERB FORMS


■ Base Form: stick
■ Past Simple: stuck
■ Past Participle: stuck
■ Present Participle/Gerund: sticking


USAGE AND CONTEXT


'Stick' is used in literal contexts of piercing and adhering, and figuratively for perseverance.


1. Adhering with Glue
This refers to making things attach to each other.


■ Action: 'Stick a stamp on the envelope before you mail it.'
■ State: 'The old tape won't stick to the box anymore.'


2. Piercing or Pushing
This refers to inserting an object into something else.


■ Action: 'He stuck a pin in the map to mark the city.'


3. Remaining or Persevering (Figurative)
This is a very common use for showing loyalty or determination.


■ Perseverance: 'Learning a language is hard, but you have to stick with it.'
■ Loyalty: 'We need to stick together as a team.'


ℹ IMPORTANT: 'STUCK' AND PHRASAL VERBS


■ 'Stuck' as an Adjective: The past participle 'stuck' is very frequently used as an adjective to mean 'unable to move or proceed.'
■ Example: 'The car is stuck in the mud.' / 'I'm stuck on this math problem.'


■ Phrasal Verbs:
■ Stick to: To continue doing or using something. ('You should stick to the original plan.')
■ Stick up for: To defend someone. ('She always sticks up for her little brother.')