We use 'about' to talk about a place that is near or close. It usually shows position or distance. It means 'around' or 'near' in space.
The books are about the desk.
She lives about two miles from here.
We use 'about' when we talk or write on a topic or a person. It means 'concerning' or 'related to' something.
We talked about the weather today.
Tell me about your family.
We use 'about' to show an approximate number, time, or amount. It means 'more or less' or 'around'.
I will come about five o'clock.
There were about ten people here.
Use 'about' when someone or something moves in different directions or places nearby. It means 'here and there' or 'around'.
She looked about for her keys.
People were walking about the park.
'About' is used to say something is almost or nearly happening. It means 'ready to do' or 'just before doing' something.
Everything is about ready for dinner.
I am about to leave now.
As a verb, 'about' means to move around something or go in a circle near it. This use is old and rare but sometimes appears in literature or formal speech.
She abouted the building quickly.
The dog abouted the tree many times.
'About' can show being active or busy doing things, often moving from place to place. It means 'engaged in various activities'.
She was about all day at work.
He is always about doing something.
'About to' is a common phrase meaning someone is ready or will do something very soon. It shows intention or immediate future action.
I was about to call you.
She is about to start her work.
