Stand to Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To be likely to get or experience something, especially a certain outcome; can also mean to be ready to act, often in a military or emergency context.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used in formal, news, or business contexts ('stand to gain/lose'), and less often informally. In military contexts, 'stand to' is a command to be alert. Do not confuse with simply 'stand' (to be upright). Usually followed by an infinitive or noun ('stand to benefit', 'stand to lose').
Example Sentences
If you work hard, you stand to succeed.
basic
The company stands to lose a lot of money.
basic
Soldiers must stand to at dawn.
basic
With the new tax law, middle-class families stand to benefit.
natural
If both teams win, we stand to see an exciting final.
natural
We all had to stand to when the alarm sounded.
natural