What are the definitions of “nose around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Look around for evidence.
The boss keeps NOSING AROUND our office when we are out at lunch.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “nose around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb nose around is to search or look around for information, often in a secretive or curious manner. It can be used to describe someone who is trying to find out information or evidence about something or someone.
What are the different verb forms of “nose around”?
| Root Verb | nose around |
| Third Person Singular Present | noses around |
| Present Participle | nosing around |
| Simple Past | nosed around |
| Past Participle | nosed 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.
Example
He is nosing around the room, trying to find some clues.
Example
Yesterday, they nosed around the crime scene for evidence.
Example
The detective had nosed around the suspect's house before making an arrest.
What kind of phrasal verb is “nose around”?
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 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
She nosed around the office when everyone was at lunch.
Example
He nosed around the room, trying to find some clues.
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 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
She nosed around the office when everyone was at lunch.
Example
He nosed around the room, trying to find some clues.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “nose around”?
To search for information or evidence, often in a secretive or curious manner.
Example
The reporter was nosing around for information about the scandal.
Good things to know
Does “nose around” have an informal or formal tone?
Nose around is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, consider using synonyms such as 'investigate', 'search', or 'explore'.
