The word “about” is highly versatile and used in various contexts in English. Here’s a detailed guide on how and where to use it:
1. To Indicate a Subject or Topic
- Use: When referring to the subject of a discussion, thought, or piece of information.
- Examples:
- She gave a speech about climate change.
- What is this book about?
- We’re talking about the new project.
2. To Indicate Approximation
- Use: When expressing an approximate amount, time, or number.
- Examples:
- He arrived about 10 minutes ago.
- There were about 50 people at the event.
- It costs about $20.
3. To Express Movement or Location (Around/Here and There)
- Use: When indicating movement or being in various places (around something or in different locations).
- Examples:
- They wandered about the park.
- Is there a pharmacy about here?
- The children were running about the yard.
Other Expressions
Daughter: I would like to have a car for my visits.
Mother: Not now, we will see that above later.
He called the office to find out about a vacancy
They were very about our mistakes.
They are very excited about the upcoming paid vacation
The party is about to start
The new recruit is has air about him (uncaring, inconsiderate)
4. To Mean “Concerning” or “In Regard To”
- Use: To refer to something relevant to a situation or question.
- Examples:
- Do you have any questions about the assignment?
- I’m worried about his health.
- This rule is about safety.
5. To Indicate Cause or Reason (Archaic/Poetic Use)
- Use: Rarely, about can mean “because of” in poetic or formal contexts.
- Examples:
- There was much ado about nothing.
- He was mad about the insult.
6. Idiomatic Expressions with “About”
- Just About: Almost or nearly.
- Example: I’m just about finished with my homework.
- Out and About: Active or moving around.
- Example: She’s finally out and about after recovering from surgery.
- What About?: Used to introduce a new idea or suggestion.
- Example: What about going to the park instead?
Tips for Proper Use
- Subject or Topic: Use when referring to what something is focused on (e.g., “The movie is about friendship.”).
- Approximation: Use for estimated amounts or times (e.g., “It’s about time to leave.”).
- Location: Use for general movement or presence (e.g., “She’s somewhere about the house.”).
Common Mistakes
- Don’t confuse “about” with “around” when indicating physical location:
- Correct: The children are playing about the park.
- Incorrect: The children are playing about the tree (use around here).
- Don’t misuse “about” where “for” or “on” is appropriate:
- Correct: This article is on health benefits.
- Incorrect: This article is about health benefits (In contexts it may be correct)
