Meaning of the word about in English

What does about mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

about

US /əˈbaʊt/
UK /əˈbaʊt/
"about" picture

Preposition

1.

on the subject of; concerning

Example:
•
What are you talking about?
•
I'm worried about her health.
2.

used to express approximation

Example:
•
It's about five o'clock.
•
There were about twenty people there.

Adverb

nearly; almost

Example:
•
He was about to leave when the phone rang.
•
The movie is about to start.

Adjective

present or in existence

Example:
•
There's no one about.
•
Is there any food about?