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Phrasal verbs "nose about" vs "nose around"

Differences between nose about and nose around

Nose about and nose around are very similar in meaning, but nose about is more commonly used in British English, while nose around is more common in American English.

Meanings and Definitions: nose about vs nose around

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Nose about

  • 1Look for something hidden or secret.

    The police are NOSING ABOUT to see if they can find anything against the gang.

Nose around

  • 1Look around for evidence.

    The boss keeps NOSING AROUND our office when we are out at lunch.

Usage Examples: nose about, nose around in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

nose about

Example

She likes to nose about in her sister's room when she's not home.

Example

He noses about the office, trying to find out the latest gossip.

nose around

Example

I don't like it when people nose around my personal belongings.

Example

She noses around the office when everyone is at lunch.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Nose about

pry into

To inquire or investigate someone's private affairs without their permission.

Example

I don't appreciate you prying into my personal life. It's none of your business.

snoop around

To search or investigate something in a sneaky or intrusive way.

Example

I caught him snooping around my room when I came back from work.

poke one's nose into

To interfere or meddle in someone else's business or affairs.

Example

She always pokes her nose into other people's problems, even when they don't ask for her help.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Nose around

rummage through

To search or look for something in a disorderly or careless way.

Example

He was rummaging through his backpack, trying to find his keys.

scout around

To search or explore an area or a place in order to find something.

Example

We spent the whole morning scouting around the park for a good spot to have a picnic.

explore around

To wander or investigate an area or a place out of curiosity.

Example

We decided to explore around the city center and discover some hidden gems.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “nose”

Differences in nose about vs nose around: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: nose about or nose around?

Both nose about and nose around are not very common phrasal verbs. They are used to describe the act of searching or investigating something in a nosy or curious way. However, nose around is slightly more common than nose about in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of nose about and nose around

Both nose about and nose around are informal phrases that are used in casual conversations. They are not suitable for formal settings like business or academic contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of nose about and nose around

The tone of both nose about and nose around is generally negative, as they imply an invasion of privacy or a lack of respect for personal boundaries. However, the tone can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intention.

nose about & nose around: Synonyms and Antonyms

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