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What does the phrasal verb “horse around” mean?

What are the definitions of “horse around”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

  • 1Not be serious.

    The class were HORSING AROUND when the teacher came in and told them to sit down.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “horse around”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb horse around is to behave in a playful, silly, or rowdy manner, often without considering the consequences. It usually refers to people who are not being serious or focused on a task.

What are the different verb forms of “horse around”?

Root Verbhorse around
Third Person Singular Presenthorses around
Present Participlehorsing around
Simple Pasthorsed around
Past Participlehorsed around

Example

The kids love to horse around in the park after school.

Example

He always horses around during class, which distracts the other students.

Example

They are horsing around in the living room, making a lot of noise.

Example

We horsed around at the party last night and had a great time.

Example

They had horsed around all day instead of studying for the exam.

What kind of phrasal verb is “horse around”?

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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

“horse around” 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 children were horsing around in the backyard.

Example

Stop horsing around and focus on your work.

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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

“horse around” 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 children were horsing around in the backyard.

Example

Stop horsing around and focus on your work.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “horse around”?

Horse around with someone

To engage in playful or silly behavior with another person.

Example

My brother and I used to horse around with each other all the time when we were kids.

Horseplay

Rough or boisterous play, often involving physical contact.

Example

The coach warned the players not to engage in horseplay during practice to avoid injuries.

Horsing around in a dangerous situation

Acting carelessly or recklessly in a situation that could lead to harm.

Example

You shouldn't be horsing around near the edge of the cliff; it's very dangerous.

Good things to know

Does “horse around” have an informal or formal tone?

Horse around is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations and settings. It is not appropriate for formal writing or situations where a more serious tone is required.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “horse around”?

Synonyms

  • romp
  • fool around
  • play around
  • mess around
  • clown around
  • act up
  • monkey around

Antonyms

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