take a stand

/teɪk ə stænd/
phraseIntermediate to publicly declare one's opinion or position
informal

To publicly declare one's opinion, position, or principles, especially on a controversial issue.

The activist took a stand for environmental protection at the town hall meeting.

The activist publicly declared their support for environmental protection during the town hall meeting.

He refused to take a stand on the political issue, fearing backlash.

He avoided publicly declaring his opinion on the political issue to prevent negative reactions.

💡

This phrase often implies courage or conviction, as taking a stand can involve risk or opposition.

Collocations

take a stand againstto oppose something publiclytake a stand forto support something publiclytake a moral standto declare one's ethical principles publicly

Related Phrases

stand up forphrase
to support or defend someone or something
take a positionphrase
to adopt a particular viewpoint

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The phrase 'take a stand' is often used in situations where someone is expressing their opinion or principles, especially when it involves risk or opposition.

Gold Rule

Public Declaration

The phrase implies a public declaration of one's opinion or position, often on a controversial issue.

📖Word Origin

The phrase 'take a stand' originates from the literal act of standing up to be counted or to be seen, symbolizing a firm position or commitment.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in contexts where someone is expressing their opinion or principles, often in the face of opposition or controversy.

Word Breakdown

take
to adopt or assume
verb
+
a
indefinite article
determiner
+
stand
a firm position or stance
noun
English Dictionary