stay firm

USAGE SUMMARY

'stay firm' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to convey the message that someone should not waver in the face of adversity, or to encourage someone to remain resolute in a difficult situation. For example, you might say, "Stay firm in your convictions, even if everyone else disagrees with you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thick ones will stay firm and unbending.

The New York Times - Food

Just stay firm: this is not about charity.

The New York Times

Prices may well stay firm in the short term.

The Economist

"We hope that Maranhão will stay firm in his decision".

The New York Times

"For that reason, I must stay firm in my post".

The New York Times

"Sanctions should stay firm on Russia," Poroshenko said.

The Guardian

If she tries to recut the deal once you're under her roof, stay firm.

The New York Times

So the cushion will stay firm, dry out better and resist fungal growth.

The New York Times

These onions also stay firm longer after an intense fry or a long, slow roast.

The New York Times - Food

Stay firm and make sure you involve them in the process.

The Washington Post

They know when to compromise with neighbors, when to stay firm, and they help develop trust with the local officials".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone to "stay firm", clearly articulate the reasons why maintaining their position is important. This provides context and strengthens their resolve.

Common error

Avoid telling someone to "stay firm" in situations where flexibility or compromise might be more beneficial. Assess the situation carefully to ensure that firmness is the appropriate approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stay firm" primarily functions as a directive or imperative, urging someone to maintain a position, belief, or course of action. As Ludwig shows, it's used to advise resilience in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

27%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stay firm" is a versatile phrase that encourages steadfastness and resolve. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it serves to direct and advise unwavering commitment. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure that firmness is indeed the most appropriate approach, as flexibility can sometimes be more beneficial. For situations where alternative phrasing is needed, options such as "remain resolute" or "stand your ground" offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stand strong

Uses "stand" instead of "stay" and "strong" instead of "firm", indicating resilience and power.

be steadfast

Replaces "stay" with "be" and "firm" with "steadfast", highlighting unwavering commitment.

remain resolute

Replaces "stay" with "remain" and "firm" with "resolute", emphasizing unwavering determination.

maintain resolve

Emphasizes upholding a firm decision or intention.

stand your ground

Offers a more assertive and defensive posture compared to "stay firm".

hold the line

Conveys resisting pressure or maintaining a boundary.

hold your position

Emphasizes maintaining a specific stance or viewpoint.

not give way

Highlights the refusal to surrender or compromise.

keep a tight grip

Suggests maintaining control, often in a challenging situation.

persevere

Focuses on continuing despite difficulties or obstacles.

FAQs

How can I use "stay firm" in a sentence?

You can use "stay firm" to encourage someone to maintain their position, decision, or belief, as in "You must "stay firm" in your negotiations to get the best deal".

What does it mean to "stay firm"?

To "stay firm" means to remain resolute, unwavering, and committed to a particular course of action or belief, even when faced with challenges or opposition. It implies a strong sense of conviction and determination.

Which is a better phrase, "stay firm" or "remain firm"?

"Stay firm" and "remain firm" are largely interchangeable, with subtle differences in nuance. "Stay firm" might imply a more active effort to maintain one's position, while "remain firm" suggests a more passive state of unwaveringness. Both are grammatically sound and widely accepted.

What can I say instead of "stay firm" when giving advice?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "stand your ground", "remain resolute", or "hold the line" to convey a similar message of unwavering commitment.