make a stand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a stand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate a person's commitment or rally behind a certain cause or ideal, or the idea of standing up and expressing yourself in the face of opposition. Example: "We will not be silenced; it is time to make a stand for our rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I will make a stand.

Independent

We need to make a stand.

The New Yorker

Make a stand, in a sense".

The Guardian

Somebody has to make a stand.

The New Yorker

It is time to make a stand.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have to make a stand together".

The Guardian

San Francisco must make a stand!

The Guardian - Sport

Two regiments of volunteers elected to make a stand.

The New York Times

"It is time for us to make a stand".

The New York Times

It's highly symbolic when charities like this make a stand".

The Guardian

Instead, they need to make a stand – now.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a stand" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and often public decision to support or defend something you believe in, especially when facing opposition.

Common error

Don't use "make a stand" when simply agreeing with an opinion or policy. "Make a stand" implies active and potentially confrontational support, not just passive acceptance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a stand" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express a decision to actively and publicly support or defend a particular cause, belief, or principle. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its consistent use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

17%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a stand" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic phrase used to express a firm decision to publicly support or defend a cause or belief. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives like "take a stand", "fight for", and "defend principles" exist, the core meaning of active commitment remains central. When using this phrase, ensure it reflects a deliberate and potentially confrontational decision, rather than passive agreement. Ultimately, "make a stand" is a powerful expression for demonstrating conviction and taking action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a stand

A more direct synonym, implying a firm and public declaration of one's position.

fight for

Highlights the struggle and effort involved in defending a cause.

make a commitment

Focuses on the dedication and pledge to support a cause or belief.

defend principles

Emphasizes the defense of moral or ethical beliefs.

oppose injustice

Highlights the act of countering unfair or inequitable situations.

take action

Emphasizes the active steps taken to support a cause rather than just a declaration.

resist oppression

Specifically refers to opposing unjust or tyrannical power.

champion a cause

Suggests actively promoting and supporting a cause with enthusiasm.

raise awareness

Focuses on informing others and gaining support for a particular issue.

be an advocate

Focuses on publicly supporting or recommending a particular cause or policy.

FAQs

How can I use "make a stand" in a sentence?

You can use "make a stand" to describe someone who is publicly supporting a cause or ideal. For example: "She decided to "make a stand" against injustice."

What's a good alternative to "make a stand"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "take a stand", "fight for", or "defend principles".

Is it better to say "make a stand" or "take a stand"?

"Make a stand" and "take a stand" are largely interchangeable, but "take a stand" might be slightly more common and direct.

What does it mean to "make a stand" for something?

To "make a stand" for something means to publicly and firmly support it, often in the face of opposition or difficulty, demonstrating a strong commitment to your beliefs.