What are the definitions of “sit about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Sit and do nothing, especially when you should be working.
We spent the afternoon SITTING ABOUT chatting instead of doing any work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sit about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sit about is to sit and do nothing, especially when you should be working or doing something productive. It often implies laziness or procrastination.
What are the different verb forms of “sit about”?
| Root Verb | sit about |
| Third Person Singular Present | sits about |
| Present Participle | sitting about |
| Simple Past | sat about |
| Past Participle | sat about |
Example
On weekends, I sometimes sit about and watch TV all day.
Example
He sits about all day, avoiding his responsibilities.
Example
She is sitting about instead of helping with the chores.
Example
Yesterday, they sat about and wasted the whole day.
Example
We have sat about too long; it's time to get to work.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sit 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
“sit 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 sat about all day, doing nothing.
Example
They sat about instead of studying for the exam.
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
“sit 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 sat about all day, doing nothing.
Example
They sat about instead of studying for the exam.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sit about”?
Good things to know
Does “sit about” have an informal or formal tone?
Sit about is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. In more formal settings, you might use alternatives like 'idle' or 'procrastinate' to convey the same meaning.
