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around
/əˈraʊnd/
in a circular or surrounding direction
She walked around the park.
She moved in a circular path through the park.
general
in a circular or surrounding direction
The children ran around the playground.
The children moved in circles around the playground.
Can indicate movement in a circular path or direction.
general
approximately or roughly
The event will start around 7 PM.
The event will begin approximately at 7 PM.
Used to indicate an approximate time, quantity, or location.
general
in the vicinity of or near
There's a store around the corner.
There is a store near the corner.
Indicates proximity or location in the surrounding area.
general
in a state of activity or busyness
He's been around all day.
He has been active or busy all day.
Used to describe someone or something that is active or present.
Collocations
around the worldin various places globallyaround the cornernearby or in the vicinityaround the clockcontinuously or all the time
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
'Around' is versatile and can be used to describe movement, location, or approximation. Pay attention to context to determine its exact meaning.
Gold Rule
Preposition vs. Adverb
When 'around' is a preposition, it is followed by a noun (e.g., 'around the house'). When it is an adverb, it modifies a verb (e.g., 'walk around').
Word Origin
From Middle English 'arounde', from Old English 'on runden', meaning 'in a circle'.
Usage Notes
Can be used as an adverb or preposition depending on context. Often indicates movement, location, or approximation.
Word Breakdown
a
indefinite article
articleround
circular or spherical shape
rootEnglish Dictionary