Question 1

What does "stand for" mean?

Accepted Answer

To be an abbreviation or symbol for a longer word, name, or idea.

Question 2

How do you use "stand for" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

The letters 'UN' stand for United Nations.

Question 3

Is "stand for" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"stand for" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. The 'abbreviation' sense (e.g., 'NASA stands for National Aeronautics and Space Administration') is extremely common and is introduced at A2 level. The 'tolerate' sense is almost always negative. The 'run for election' sense is primarily British English.

stand for

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