What are the definitions of “nose about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Look for something hidden or secret.
The police are NOSING ABOUT to see if they can find anything against the gang.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “nose about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb nose about is to search for something hidden or secret, often in a curious or intrusive manner. It can be used to describe someone who is trying to find information or discover something that is not easily visible or known.
What are the different verb forms of “nose about”?
| Root Verb | nose about |
| Third Person Singular Present | noses about |
| Present Participle | nosing about |
| Simple Past | nosed about |
| Past Participle | nosed 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.
Example
The detective was nosing about the crime scene, looking for clues.
Example
Yesterday, they nosed about the old house, searching for hidden treasures.
Example
The curious cat had nosed about the entire room, investigating every corner.
What kind of phrasal verb is “nose 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
“nose 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 journalist nosed about for any new information.
Example
The children nosed about the attic, hoping to find hidden treasures.
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
“nose 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 journalist nosed about for any new information.
Example
The children nosed about the attic, hoping to find hidden treasures.
Good things to know
Does “nose about” have an informal or formal tone?
Nose about is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'investigate,' 'search,' or 'explore.'
