around the block

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "around the block" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a short distance or a nearby location, often in the context of walking or traveling. Example: "I just need to run around the block to grab some groceries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Just around the block".

The New Yorker

"We should drive around the block".

The New Yorker

The kids lined up around the block.

The New Yorker

Just let me go around the block".

The New Yorker

We parked around the block.

The New York Times

Skinner drove around the block.

The New Yorker

I'd been around the block.

The Guardian - Books

"Line around the block for Lena Dunham panel.

The New Yorker

Will they line around the block?

The Guardian - Tech

Walk around the block a few times?

The Guardian - Opinion

Bud had to walk around the block.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "around the block" to describe a short walk or drive, consider the context. If precision is needed, specify the actual distance or time instead.

Common error

While "around the block" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing where more precise or sophisticated language is preferred. Use alternatives like "nearby" or "in the vicinity" /s/in+the+vicinity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "around the block" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying verbs to indicate direction or location. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and commonly used. It can also function as part of an idiom to signify experience or familiarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "around the block" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to denote physical proximity or, idiomatically, experience. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as in informal contexts like wikis. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in formal writing, favoring more precise language when appropriate. The phrase's consistent presence across diverse sources underscores its established place in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just around the corner

Highlights that the place is very near and easily accessible, more specific than "around the block".

nearby

Indicates simple physical closeness without necessarily implying a loop or circuit.

in the vicinity

Refers to the general area or neighborhood, rather than a specific route.

a stone's throw away

Implies extreme closeness, suggesting it is easily reachable.

a short distance away

Emphasizes the brief length of the separation.

in close proximity

More formal way of saying nearby, focusing on the nearness.

a hop, skip, and a jump

Suggests a very short and easy journey.

doing a lap

Highlights the completion of a round trip or loop.

making a circuit

Focuses on the action of going around, similar to driving or walking around the block.

been there, done that

Idiomatic way of saying experienced, similar to the idiomatic use of "been around the block".

FAQs

How can I use "around the block" in a sentence?

You can use "around the block" to describe a short distance, like in the sentence, "I'm just going to walk "around the block" to get some fresh air." It can also refer to experience, as in "He's been "around the block" a few times, so he knows what he's doing."

What does it mean to be "around the block"?

Being "around the block" can have two meanings. Literally, it means to be physically near, like "The store is just "around the block"". Figuratively, it implies having experience or knowledge, similar to saying "He's been "around the block""."

Which is correct, "around the block" or "round the block"?

"Around the block" is more common and widely accepted. "Round the block" might be used colloquially, but ""around the block"" is the standard and preferred phrase.

What are some synonyms for "around the block" when referring to physical proximity?

When ""around the block"" refers to physical proximity, synonyms include "nearby", "close by", or "just "around the corner"". These alternatives convey a similar sense of nearness.