What are the definitions of “bang about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Move in a place making a lot of noise.
He's BANGING ABOUT in the kitchen.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bang about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bang about is to move around in a place while making a lot of noise. This can happen when someone is clumsy or careless, or when they are searching for something and making a mess in the process.
What are the different verb forms of “bang about”?
| Root Verb | bang about |
| Third Person Singular Present | bangs about |
| Present Participle | banging about |
| Simple Past | banged about |
| Past Participle | banged about |
Example
My neighbor always bangs about in his apartment late at night.
Example
She bangs about in her room when she's looking for her lost keys.
Example
The kids are banging about in the playroom, making a lot of noise.
Example
He banged about in the garage while searching for his tools.
Example
The dog banged about in the house, knocking over furniture.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bang about”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bang about” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The wind banged about the shutters all night.
Example
He banged about in the kitchen, making a mess.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bang about” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The wind banged about the shutters all night.
Example
He banged about in the kitchen, making a mess.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bang about”?
Bang up
To damage or injure something or someone.
Example
He banged up his car in the accident, and it needed repairs.
Good things to know
Does “bang about” have an informal or formal tone?
Bang about is an informal phrasal verb that is mostly used in casual conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
