Grammar fix
stem from
originate in / be caused by (abstract, formal-neutral)
to be caused by or to have developed as a result of something, especially when talking about the origin of a problem, situation, or feeling.
phrasal verbC1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Most of her anxiety stems from a lack of confidence at work.
Many social problems stem from inequality in access to education and healthcare.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: His anxiety stems by his childhood.
Say: His anxiety stems from his childhood.
'Stem FROM' the cause — not 'by'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Stem from' is the natural verb for tracing a cause; 'originates in' is more formal/written.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
stem from + cause
- a misunderstanding
- fear
- the same problem
- childhood