The words "stick" and "adhere" both relate to the action of something becoming attached to something else, but they have different connotations and uses. "Stick" is a more general and informal term, often implying a simple, perhaps temporary, attachment. "Adhere," on the other hand, suggests a closer, more deliberate, and often permanent attachment, often following a set of rules or guidelines. Think of "stick" as what a sticker does to paper, and "adhere" as what glue does to wood.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Stick:

  • "The poster stuck to the wall." (The poster is attached to the wall, perhaps temporarily.)
  • "The gum stuck to my shoe." (The gum is attached to the shoe, likely temporarily and messily.)
  • Translation: The poster and the gum were attached to the wall and shoe respectively, quite possibly temporarily.

• Adhere:

  • "The wallpaper must adhere firmly to the wall for a good finish." (The wallpaper needs to be strongly and permanently attached.)
  • "We must adhere to the rules of the competition." (This uses the word figuratively, meaning to follow or abide by.)
  • Translation: The wallpaper must be strongly attached to the wall, and we must follow the rules.

Notice that "adhere" can be used in a more figurative sense, meaning to follow or conform to rules or principles. "Stick" is typically used in a literal sense, describing physical attachment. The choice of word depends on the context and the type of attachment you want to describe.

Happy learning!