What are the definitions of “toss around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Discuss something freely and openly, but not very seriously.
We TOSSED their plan AROUND a bit and then rejected it.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “toss around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb toss around is to discuss something freely and openly, but not very seriously. It is often used when people are brainstorming ideas or sharing opinions without making any final decisions.
What are the different verb forms of “toss around”?
| Root Verb | toss around |
| Third Person Singular Present | tosses around |
| Present Participle | tossing around |
| Simple Past | tossed around |
| Past Participle | tossed around |
Example
They toss around ideas for the new project.
Example
She tosses around suggestions for the party theme.
Example
We are tossing around different vacation destinations.
Example
Yesterday, they tossed around a few names for the baby.
Example
Several ideas have been tossed around during the meeting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “toss 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.)
Transitive verb
“toss around” 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
They tossed around a few ideas for the new project.
Example
She tossed around some suggestions for the party theme.
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
“toss 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
They tossed around a few ideas for the new project.
Example
She tossed around some suggestions for the party theme.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “toss around”?
Toss around opinions
To share personal opinions or thoughts on a topic without making any final judgments.
Example
During the book club meeting, members tossed around their opinions on the novel.
Toss around possibilities
To consider different options or scenarios without committing to any specific choice.
Example
We tossed around the possibilities of where to go on our next vacation.
Good things to know
Does “toss around” have an informal or formal tone?
Toss around is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal settings. In more formal situations, you might use phrases like 'discuss,' 'consider,' or 'debate' instead.
