Meaning trap

stick out

to be very noticeable

To be easy to see or recognize because of being different or unusual.

phrasal verbB1common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

to be very noticeable

To be easy to see or recognize because of being different or unusual.

stick out (to extend outward)

Another meaning of 'stick out' is 'to extend outward'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

Her bright red coat really stuck out in the crowd.daily life
In my opinion, what makes a good teacher stick out is their ability to connect with students.IELTS speaking

Pattern: stick out (from/among something)

WrongI felt I sticked out at the party.

RightI felt I stuck out at the party.

Irregular past — 'stuck out', not 'sticked out'.

Patternstick out (from/among something)

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff Her bright coat was conspicuous among the dark uniforms.

Natural Her bright coat really stuck out.

'Stick out' is the everyday verb for being very noticeable; 'conspicuous' is formal.

Words that usually travel with it.

'Stand out' is often more positive, while 'stick out' can suggest something is awkward or doesn’t belong.

stick out (to extend outward) — Another meaning of 'stick out' is 'to extend outward'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.