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Pelin
Can I use these two interchangeably? I stay away from those kinds of things. I stand away from those kinds of things.
Nov 17, 2025 9:18 PM
Answers · 3
No, to “stay away” is assuming an action that will likely continue in the future. I would “stay away” from people with bad breath, or I would “stay away” from a bees nest. It assumes the action is related to avoiding something (typically relating to the future). To “stand away” you are explaining your position in relation to another object. I would “stand away” from an open window if I were explaining my position to the window. In that scenario, I am explaining where my body is in relation to a window. In a way, they are both usable in similar settings, however they do not mean the same thing. “I stay away from big dogs” means I avoid big dogs now and in the future. “I stand away from big dogs” means I keep physical distance between myself and big dogs if we are near each other.
5 hours ago
Invitee
Stay away - would mean avoid, keep your distance usually, or by habit - "I stay away from trouble". Stand away - physically stand away at a distance right now. Commonly used by the police - "Stand away from the weapon!" In your example, the first (I stay away from those kinds of things) is better and more common.
Nov 17, 2025 10:45 PM
If you are in the United States, use "I stay away...".
Nov 17, 2025 10:13 PM
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