about

word

/əˈbaʊt/
uh-BOWT
/ɐbˈaʊt/
uh-BOWT

Definition

Used to show the subject of something, to indicate approximation, or to mean nearby or around a place or time.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used as a preposition and adverb. Be careful not to confuse with 'around,' although they often overlap. Often used with approximate numbers ('about 10'), topics ('talk about'), or direction/location ('about here').

Example Sentences

There's something about this place I like.

basic

She's really passionate about helping others.

natural

We talked about the movie.

basic

She arrived about 3 o'clock.

basic

I'm thinking about going on vacation next month.

natural

The shop is somewhere about here.

natural