Meaning trap
stick to
continue with a plan
To keep doing something you decided to do, even if it gets difficult or boring.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
To keep doing something you decided to do, even if it gets difficult or boring.
Another meaning of 'stick to' is 'follow a rule or limit'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- If you want to get fit, you need to stick to your exercise routine.daily life
- In my opinion, it's important to stick to your goals, especially when you face challenges.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: stick to + noun/gerund
WrongI'll stick on my plan.
RightI'll stick to my plan.
'Stick TO' a plan — not 'on'.
Patternstick to + noun/gerund
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Stick to' is the everyday verb for keeping to a decision; 'adhere to' is formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
stick to + planthe planyour gunsthe schedulewhat we agreed
Don't confuse it
'Stick with' can mean to stay with a person or thing, but 'stick to' is used for plans, routines, or decisions.
Related
- stick to (follow a rule or limit) — Another meaning of 'stick to' is 'follow a rule or limit'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.