What are the definitions of “see about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Arrange, consider.
I'll SEE ABOUT whether we can manage it.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “see about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb see about is to arrange or consider something. It is often used when someone is trying to find out information or make plans for a particular situation.
What are the different verb forms of “see about”?
| Root Verb | see about |
| Third Person Singular Present | sees about |
| Present Participle | seeing about |
| Simple Past | saw about |
| Past Participle | seen about |
Example
I need to see about getting a new passport before my trip.
Example
She sees about the meeting arrangements every week.
Example
He is seeing about finding a new apartment in the city.
Example
Yesterday, they saw about reserving a table at the restaurant.
Example
The issue has been seen about and resolved.
What kind of phrasal verb is “see 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.)
Transitive verb
“see about” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I will see about the party preparations.
Example
She saw about getting a new 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
“see 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
I will see about the party preparations.
Example
She saw about getting a new job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “see about”?
Good things to know
Does “see about” have an informal or formal tone?
See about is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business meetings or professional correspondence.
