standing

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "standing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an adjective, noun, or verb. Example sentence: After years of hard work, she was finally standing on top of the corporate ladder.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The last vespasienne left standing in Paris stands on the Boulevard Arago just beneath the walls of La Santé prison.

The Guardian

You're magnificent, and the only reason I'm standing here is because of you.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In October, Freeman carried out a protest by standing on a Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square in London in a 28-hour standoff with police.

The Guardian

In March 1963 I had the misfortune to find myself standing in the dock in the Old Bailey.

The Guardian

He praised Britain's forces for enhancing its standing.

The Guardian

There is also a telephone to which only the band's ex-members have the number: if it rings and a museum-goer picks it up, they will find themselves in the disconcerting position of holding a conversation with one of Abba while standing in front of a vast floor-to ceiling photograph of Abba.

The Guardian - Music

Plibersek and the opposition's health spokeswoman, Catherine King, wrote to ministers on Thursday saying Australia could not afford to keep standing by as the world confronted "the most serious health emergency of the modern era".

The Guardian

I think that to have Peter on board has given me the courage to be less afraid about standing up on this issue".

The Guardian

The charity industry is used to standing up for itself.

The Guardian - Opinion

TASMINA AHMED-SHEIKH, 44 SNP, OCHIL AND SOUTH PERTHSHIRE Ahmed-Sheikh was a member of the Conservative party until 2000, standing for the Scottish parliament for the Tories in 1999.

The Guardian

It is easy to mock the idea of Cameron standing up for the toiling masses while the pockets of his Old Etonian tailcoat bulge with hedge-funded millions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "standing" to describe a position or status, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to physical stance or social/professional standing.

Common error

Avoid using "standing" in contexts where it's unclear whether you mean a physical position or a metaphorical status. Provide clarifying details to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The word "standing" primarily functions as a verb (present participle) or an adjective, as confirmed by Ludwig. It also operates as a noun, referring to a position or reputation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sport

25%

Opinion

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "standing" is a versatile term used as a verb, adjective, and noun, indicating physical positions, social status, or the state of something remaining in effect. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. The frequency of "standing" is very common, especially in news, sports, and opinion pieces. When employing "standing", clarity is key to avoid ambiguity between its literal and metaphorical meanings. The term carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for various communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being upright

Focuses on the physical act of being in an erect position rather than a more abstract concept of position or status.

being on one's feet

Emphasizes the physical effort and state of being in an upright position, often implying readiness or activity.

position in society

Highlights social rank or status, moving away from the physical aspect of "standing".

reputation

Emphasizes the perception and evaluation of someone's character or achievements by others.

duration

Indicates the length of time something has existed or been in effect.

being located

Focuses on the placement or situation of something in a specific place.

remaining valid

Highlights the continued legality or effectiveness of something.

staying in effect

Focuses on the persistence and continued operation of a rule, law, or agreement.

continuing to apply

Emphasizes the ongoing relevance and implementation of a principle or rule.

not sitting

Directly contrasts with the act of sitting, emphasizing the upright posture.

FAQs

How can I use "standing" in a sentence?

You can use "standing" to describe someone physically upright (e.g., "He was standing by the door"), a position or reputation (e.g., "Her standing in the community is high"), or something that remains in effect (e.g., "a standing committee").

What is the difference between "standing" and "sitting"?

"Standing" refers to being upright on your feet, while "sitting" means resting your weight on your buttocks. The terms are direct opposites in terms of physical posture.

When should I use "standing ovation"?

Use "standing ovation" to describe an enthusiastic and prolonged applause where the audience rises to their feet as a sign of high approval and appreciation.

What does it mean to have "standing" in a legal context?

In a legal context, "standing" refers to the right of a party to bring a legal action, based on their relationship to the matter being litigated. It means they are directly affected by the issue and have the right to sue.