What are the definitions of “scout about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Look in different places for something.
The company is SCOUTING ABOUT for new staff.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “scout about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb scout about is to search or look in different places for something or someone. It often involves exploring various locations or sources to find what you are looking for.
What are the different verb forms of “scout about”?
| Root Verb | scout about |
| Third Person Singular Present | scouts about |
| Present Participle | scouting about |
| Simple Past | scouted about |
| Past Participle | scouted about |
Example
I need to scout about for a new apartment.
Example
She scouts about for the best deals when shopping.
Example
He is scouting about for a new job opportunity.
Example
Yesterday, they scouted about for a suitable location for their event.
Example
We have scouted about for the perfect wedding venue.
What kind of phrasal verb is “scout 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
“scout 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 scouted about for a new dress.
Example
He scouted about for a better job.
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
“scout 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 scouted about for a new dress.
Example
He scouted about for a better job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “scout about”?
Searching for information from various sources.
Example
The journalist scouted about for information on the latest scandal.
Good things to know
Does “scout about” have an informal or formal tone?
Scout about is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is suitable for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
