Meaning
To remain at your residence rather than leaving it.
Cultural Background
The 'Stay-at-home mom' (SAHM) is a very common cultural label. There is often a lot of public debate about the economic and social value of this role. British people are more likely to say 'stay at home' or 'stay in.' 'Stay home' is often perceived as an Americanism, though it is becoming more common. The concept of 'Hygge' (coziness) makes staying home a highly valued social activity, often involving candles, friends, and comfort food. The phrase became a symbol of solidarity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the hashtag #StayHome was a way to show you were doing your part for public health.
American vs British
If you want to sound more American, drop the 'at'. If you want to sound more British, keep it.
No 'to'!
Never say 'stay to home'. It is the most common mistake for beginners.
Meaning
To remain at your residence rather than leaving it.
American vs British
If you want to sound more American, drop the 'at'. If you want to sound more British, keep it.
No 'to'!
Never say 'stay to home'. It is the most common mistake for beginners.
The Adjective Form
Remember to use hyphens for 'stay-at-home parent'. It makes your writing look professional.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'stay home'.
I was feeling very tired yesterday, so I ________.
The sentence uses 'yesterday,' so we need the past tense.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Pick the best option:
'Want' requires 'to' before the next verb, but 'stay home' does not need a preposition between the words.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Are you coming to the party? B: No, I think I'll ________.
'I'll' (I will) is followed by the base form of the verb.
Match the reason to the action.
Why would someone stay home?
Staying home is the standard action when you are sick.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Reasons to Stay Home
Health
- • Flu
- • Cold
- • Tiredness
Weather
- • Rain
- • Snow
- • Storm
Fun
- • Movies
- • Reading
- • Cooking
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI was feeling very tired yesterday, so I ________.
The sentence uses 'yesterday,' so we need the past tense.
Pick the best option:
'Want' requires 'to' before the next verb, but 'stay home' does not need a preposition between the words.
A: Are you coming to the party? B: No, I think I'll ________.
'I'll' (I will) is followed by the base form of the verb.
Why would someone stay home?
Staying home is the standard action when you are sick.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes, in this phrase 'home' acts as an adverb, so no preposition is needed.
It is grammatically correct but sounds very redundant. Just say 'I stay home'.
'Stay home' means you are at your house. 'Stay in' means you aren't going out for social fun.
Both are correct. 'Stayed home' is more common in American English.
No, you should say 'stay at the hotel' or 'stay in'. 'Home' only refers to your residence.
Related Phrases
stay in
similarTo not go out for social entertainment.
work from home
specialized formTo do your job at your house.
stay put
similarTo remain in one's current location.
go out
contrastTo leave the house for fun.
