What are the definitions of “be on about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Mean, try to say.
I couldn't understand what he WAS ON ABOUT- it made no sense.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be on about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be on about is to talk about something or try to say something. It is often used when the speaker's message is unclear or confusing. For example, it can mean not understanding what someone is saying or trying to explain.
What are the different verb forms of “be on about”?
| Root Verb | be on about |
| Third Person Singular Present | is on about |
| Present Participle | being on about |
| Simple Past | was on about |
| Past Participle | been on about |
Example
I don't know what she is on about in her speech.
Example
He is on about something, but I can't understand his point.
Example
She is being on about a new idea, but it's hard to follow her explanation.
Example
Yesterday, he was on about a new project, but I didn't get the details.
Example
She has been on about this issue for a while, but no one seems to understand her.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be on 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
“be on 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
I don't know what he is on about.
Example
She was on about something, but I couldn't understand her.
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
“be on 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 don't know what he is on about.
Example
She was on about something, but I couldn't understand her.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be on about”?
Good things to know
Does “be on about” have an informal or formal tone?
Be on about is an informal phrasal verb used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written language. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'discuss,' 'talk about,' or 'explain' can be used.
