What are the definitions of “sit around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Sit idly, doing nothing.
They just SAT AROUND while the others did all the work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sit around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sit around is to sit idly without doing anything, often implying laziness or wasting time. For example, it can mean sitting and doing nothing while others are working or not being productive.
What are the different verb forms of “sit around”?
| Root Verb | sit around |
| Third Person Singular Present | sits around |
| Present Participle | sitting around |
| Simple Past | sat around |
| Past Participle | sat around |
Example
On weekends, I sometimes like to sit around and watch TV.
Example
He sits around all day playing video games.
Example
They are sitting around the house, not helping with the chores.
Example
Yesterday, we sat around the campfire and shared stories.
Example
We have sat around long enough; it's time to get to work.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sit 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
“sit 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 sat around all day, not doing anything productive.
Example
They sat around while their friends cleaned up the mess.
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 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 sat around all day, not doing anything productive.
Example
They sat around while their friends cleaned up the mess.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sit around”?
Good things to know
Does “sit around” have an informal or formal tone?
Sit around is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
