What are the definitions of “mooch about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Spend time doing little or nothing.
I MOOCHED ABOUT the whole afternoon because I didn't feel like working.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “mooch about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mooch about is to spend time doing little or nothing, often in a lazy or aimless manner. It can be used to describe someone who is not being productive or is just passing the time without any specific purpose.
What are the different verb forms of “mooch about”?
| Root Verb | mooch about |
| Third Person Singular Present | mooches about |
| Present Participle | mooching about |
| Simple Past | mooched about |
| Past Participle | mooched about |
Example
On weekends, I like to mooch about the house in my pajamas.
Example
He mooches about the park when he has nothing else to do.
Example
She is mooching about the mall, not really looking for anything in particular.
Example
Yesterday, they mooched about the city, just enjoying the sights.
Example
We have mooched about all day, not accomplishing much.
What kind of phrasal verb is “mooch 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
“mooch 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
She mooched about the house all day.
Example
He mooched about the neighborhood with no particular destination.
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
“mooch 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
She mooched about the house all day.
Example
He mooched about the neighborhood with no particular destination.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “mooch about”?
Mooch around
Similar to *mooch about,* meaning to spend time doing little or nothing, often in a lazy or aimless manner.
Example
I spent the day mooching around the house, not really accomplishing anything.
Good things to know
Does “mooch about” have an informal or formal tone?
Mooch about is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'wander' or 'idle' can be used.
