What are the definitions of “sleep around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have casual sexual relationships with multiple partners.
As though he can go off and sleep around and then just come back and expect you to want him back.
- 2Engage in occasional casual sexual encounters without being overly promiscuous.
Not that they... sleep around all that much, but you know, in case, some rumors start spreading.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sleep around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sleep around is to have casual sexual relationships with many different partners. It is often used to describe someone who does not have a steady partner and prefers to have sexual encounters with different people.
What are the different verb forms of “sleep around”?
| Root Verb | sleep around |
| Third Person Singular Present | sleeps around |
| Present Participle | sleeping around |
| Simple Past | slept around |
| Past Participle | slept around |
Example
She doesn't want to sleep around; she prefers to be in a committed relationship.
Example
He sleeps around and doesn't seem interested in a serious relationship.
Example
They are sleeping around and not looking for anything serious.
Example
In his youth, he slept around quite a bit.
Example
She had slept around before she decided to settle down.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sleep 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
“sleep 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
He slept around when he was in college.
Example
She slept around before she met her husband.
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
“sleep 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
He slept around when he was in college.
Example
She slept around before she met her husband.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sleep around”?
Good things to know
Does “sleep around” have an informal or formal tone?
Sleep around is considered informal and is often used in casual conversations. It is not typically used in formal or professional settings due to its reference to casual sexual relationships. It is more appropriate to use in personal conversations or in contexts where the topic of sexual relationships is relevant.
