What are the definitions of “gad about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Visit a lot of different places for pleasure.
I spent the afternoon GADDING ABOUT in the West End.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “gad about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb gad about is to visit many different places for fun or pleasure. It often implies wandering or roaming around without a specific purpose or plan.
What are the different verb forms of “gad about”?
| Root Verb | gad about |
| Third Person Singular Present | gads about |
| Present Participle | gadding about |
| Simple Past | gadded about |
| Past Participle | gadded about |
Example
On weekends, she likes to gad about the city and explore new places.
Example
He gads about the town, trying out different cafes and restaurants.
Example
They are gadding about the countryside, enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Example
Yesterday, we gadded about the shopping district, looking for bargains.
Example
She had gadded about Europe during her gap year, visiting many countries.
What kind of phrasal verb is “gad 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.)
Intransitive verb
“gad about” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
We gadded about the city all day.
Example
She gadded about the park, enjoying the sunshine.
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
“gad 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
We gadded about the city all day.
Example
She gadded about the park, enjoying the sunshine.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “gad about”?
Gad about town
To wander or roam around a town or city for pleasure or entertainment.
Example
On her day off, she likes to gad about town and discover new places to visit.
Gad about the countryside
To wander or roam around the countryside for pleasure or relaxation.
Example
During their vacation, they gadded about the countryside, taking in the fresh air and beautiful views.
Gad about the world
To travel and explore different countries and cultures for pleasure or personal growth.
Example
After retiring, he decided to gad about the world and experience new adventures.
Good things to know
Does “gad about” have an informal or formal tone?
Gad about is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. It may not be suitable for formal contexts or academic writing. In more formal situations, alternatives such as 'travel,' 'explore,' or 'wander' can be used.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “gad about”?
Synonyms
- explore
- roam
- wander
- travel
- ramble
- meander
- stroll
- traipse
Antonyms
- stay
- remain
- rest
- settle
- linger
- wait
- halt
- pause
