stance - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
stance Word Meanings
- a way of holding the body
- an attitude or position on an issue
- the physical position used in various sports
stance Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
stance Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/stɑːns/
US
/stæns/
stance Word Etymology
Root: stance (from 'stare' - to stand). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine someone firmly standing their ground in a debate, emphasizing their strong belief.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
You plant your feet and ease into a ready stance. You shift your weight from one foot to the other, your shoulders settling and your hands loose at your sides. The effort feels like choosing a side in a crowded room, a quiet push and pull of attention and intention. By the end, your stance on the issue isn’t just a posture, it’s something you carry into conversations, decisions, and what you do next.
Real Context
Stance is a versatile word that points to how you hold your body and how you think about an issue. In physical terms, a stance is the position your feet and body take to stay balanced, ready to move, or to strike in sports, martial arts, or dance. Metaphorically, it also means your attitude or position on a topic, such as a political stance or an ethical stance. People often describe someone taking or changing a stance when they express a firm belief or plan of action. The memory image is clear: you stand your ground, shoulders squared, face calm, ready to defend what you think is right.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'take a stance' or 'hold a stance' to describe a position on an issue. The phrase 'stance on' is followed by a topic. In sports, 'stance' refers to how you stand to maintain balance and power. It is countable: you can have a different stance for different activities. Think of the memory image of standing firm and grounded.
Common Misconceptions
- Stance is only about body position and nothing to do with opinions.
- You can’t change your stance once you’ve formed it.
- A stance always means a fixed, rigid pose.
- Stance and posture are the same word in all contexts.
- You must always be in a literal athletic stance to use the word.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations: take a stance, stance on a topic, strong stance, shift stance
- link stance with body posture for sports contexts
- practice both literal and figurative uses in sentences
- notice whether the verb take/hold accompanies stance
- keep track of countable vs uncountable usage (a stance vs multiple stances)
- read and listen to debates to see how people describe positions
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'stance'?
A.A belief
B.A position
C.A state
D.A condition
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'stance' used correctly?
A.She took a walk in the park.
B.I ate a delicious meal.
C.His stance on the issue was clear.
D.The car engine broke down.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'stance'?
A.Agreement
B.Motion
C.Consent
D.Posture
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would someone have a 'stance'?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Debating an issue
C.Playing a sport
D.Reading a book
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on how 'stance' can influence a person's point of view.
A.Happy
B.Sad
C.Impactful
D.Neutral
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App