What are the definitions of “bash about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Mistreat physically.
If you BASH your monitor ABOUT like that, it won't last long.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bash about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bash about is to mistreat something or someone physically, often by hitting or striking them. This can refer to objects or people being treated roughly or carelessly.
What are the different verb forms of “bash about”?
| Root Verb | bash about |
| Third Person Singular Present | bashes about |
| Present Participle | bashing about |
| Simple Past | bashed about |
| Past Participle | bashed about |
Example
Don't bash about your toys, or they will break.
Example
He bashes about his old car without worrying about damaging it.
Example
The kids are bashing about their toys in the playroom.
Example
She bashed about the old furniture while moving it out of the room.
Example
The old suitcase was bashed about during the trip.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bash 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.)
Transitive verb
“bash about” 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
He bashed the door about in frustration.
Example
She bashed about her brother's toy car.
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
“bash 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
He bashed the door about in frustration.
Example
She bashed about her brother's toy car.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bash about”?
Bash around
Similar to *bash about*, it means to treat something or someone roughly or carelessly.
Example
He bashed around his old guitar, not caring if it got scratched.
Bash up
To damage or destroy something by hitting or striking it.
Example
The storm bashed up the trees in the park.
Bash on
To continue doing something despite difficulties or setbacks.
Example
Even though the project was challenging, they decided to bash on and finish it.
Good things to know
Does “bash about” have an informal or formal tone?
Bash about is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal settings or written language. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'mistreat' or 'handle roughly' can be used.
