stage
stayj
Stage (noun) means a phase or step in a process of change or development. Example: “The project is still in its early stages.”
noun
1
A phase or step in a process of change or development.
"The project is still in its early stages."
"Toddlers go through a stage of asking "why" constantly."
"Once the first stage of the repairs is finished, we can move on to painting."
2
A raised platform where performances take place.
"The band walked onto the stage to loud applause."
"Children climbed onto the stage to receive their certificates from the head teacher."
"The lights dimmed and a single spotlight fell on the empty stage."
verb
1
To organise and carry out an event, especially a performance or protest.
"The theatre staged a bold new production of Hamlet."
"Workers staged a walkout over pay."
"Neighbours staged a street party to celebrate the end of the roadworks."
How to use stage
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA step in a process, or a platform for performing — also a verb meaning to organise an event.
Common mistake
A "staged" event or photo can also mean faked or set up to look real when it wasn't — don't confuse this with the neutral "stage a play."
Common pairings
at this stage
stage of development
set the stage
stage a protest
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Word forms
- Plural
- stages
- Third person singular
- stages
- Past tense
- staged
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The project is still in its early _____.
Etymology
From Old French estage, meaning a dwelling or condition, ultimately tied to a verb meaning "to stand" — the same root that gives us "stead."
Related words
Rhymes for stage
See all rhymes for stage →Frequently asked questions
What does “stage” mean?
The word “stage” means a phase or step in a process of change or development. In plain terms, a step in a process, or a platform for performing — also a verb meaning to organise an event.
How do you pronounce “stage”?
“Stage” is pronounced stayj (/steɪd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “stage” in a sentence?
Here is “stage” used in a sentence: “The project is still in its early stages.”
What is another word for “stage”?
Words with a similar meaning to “stage” include level, map, area, world, track and board.
What part of speech is “stage”?
Depending on how it is used, “stage” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “stage” come from?
The word “stage” comes from Old French. From Old French estage, meaning a dwelling or condition, ultimately tied to a verb meaning "to stand" — the same root that gives us "stead.".
Is “stage” a common word?
“Stage” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “stage” have?
“Stage” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a phase or step in a process of change or development.
What is the difference between a stage and a phase?
The two are close and often interchangeable, but there is a subtle difference. A stage is usually a distinct, orderly step in a sequence, such as stage one and stage two. A phase tends to describe a period marked by a particular character or condition, which may blend gradually into the next.
What is an example of a stage?
A caterpillar becoming a butterfly passes through clear stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. A construction project might have a planning stage, a building stage, and a finishing stage. In both cases, a stage is one identifiable step within a larger process of change or development.
What is the difference between a stage and a step?
A step is usually smaller and more specific, a single action you take. A stage is broader, often containing several steps, and marks a whole span of progress. You might complete many steps within the early stage of a project before moving on to the next stage.
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