About: meaning, definitions and examples

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about

 

[ əˈbaʊt ]

Preposition / Adverb / Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Preposition

in relation to something

Used to refer to the relation of a person or thing to another or others. It can also indicate the topic of something.

Synonyms

concerning, on the subject of, regarding

Examples of usage

  • I was talking about the weather.
  • This book is about ancient civilizations.
  • She is passionate about her work.
  • We need to make a decision about our future.
  • They had a discussion about politics.
Context #2 | Adverb

approximately

Used to indicate an approximate amount or time.

Synonyms

approximately, around, roughly

Examples of usage

  • There were about 50 people at the party.
  • The meeting will start in about an hour.
  • He arrived at about 9 o'clock.
Context #3 | Adjective

suitable

Used to describe something as suitable or appropriate.

Synonyms

appropriate, correct, suitable

Examples of usage

  • This is the right book for students of all ages.
  • She is the right person for the job.
  • Is this the right way to the museum?

Translations

Translations of the word "about" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobre

🇮🇳 के बारे में

🇩🇪 über

🇮🇩 tentang

🇺🇦 про

🇵🇱 o

🇯🇵 について

🇫🇷 à propos de

🇪🇸 sobre

🇹🇷 hakkında

🇰🇷 에 대해

🇸🇦 عن

🇨🇿 o

🇸🇰 o

🇨🇳 关于

🇸🇮 o

🇮🇸 um

🇰🇿 туралы

🇬🇪 შესახებ

🇦🇿 haqqında

🇲🇽 sobre

Word origin

The word 'about' originated from Middle English and Old English, derived from the word 'abutan' meaning 'around'. It has been used for centuries in the English language to indicate relation, approximation, or suitability. Over time, its usage has evolved to encompass various contexts and meanings, making it a versatile and commonly used word in everyday communication.