just about
It's just about time to leave.
It is almost time to leave.
Almost, very nearly
I've just about finished my homework.
I have almost finished my homework.
The meeting is just about over.
The meeting is almost over.
Used to indicate something is very close to being completed or achieved, but not quite there yet.
Collocations
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage with verbs
Use 'just about' before verbs in the -ing form to indicate near completion: 'I'm just about finishing.'
Gold Rule
Positioning
Place 'just about' before the word or phrase it modifies for clarity: 'just about done' not 'done just about'.
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'just' (meaning exactly or precisely) and 'about' (meaning approximately or near). The combined usage emerged in the early 20th century to emphasize nearness in time or completion.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in informal speech and writing. It can precede adjectives, verbs, or nouns to indicate nearness. Avoid using it in formal or technical contexts where precision is required.