stem from — originate in / be caused by (abstract, formal-neutral)
phrasal verbC1IELTS 7+neutralcommon
to be caused by or to have developed as a result of something, especially when talking about the origin of a problem, situation, or feeling.
Say it like a native
Textbook The conflict originates in a long-standing historical grievance.
Native The conflict stems from an old grievance.
'Stem from' is the natural verb for tracing a cause; 'originates in' is more formal/written.
Pattern: stem from + noun/gerund
In use
- Most of her anxiety stems from a lack of confidence at work.society
- Many social problems stem from inequality in access to education and healthcare.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ His anxiety stems by his childhood.
✓ His anxiety stems from his childhood.
'Stem FROM' the cause — not 'by'.
Common collocations
stem from + cause— a misunderstanding, fear, the same problem, childhood
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'come from', which can refer to physical origin or general source, 'stem from' is used for abstract or non-physical causes, such as reasons, problems, or feelings.