be about that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be about that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in informal contexts to express commitment or readiness to engage in a particular action or attitude. Example: "If you're serious about making a change, you need to be about that and take action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

I bought a typewriter last week so this week's column will be about that.

Independent

Here in the U.S. that would be a necessity, and the film would be about that.

The New York Times

"It shouldn't be about that.

The New York Times - Sports

I even took those horse-size prenatal vitamins, so it can't be about that.

Huffington Post

Could his show be about that?

The New York Times

"This may be about that," Ira said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

And that was about that.

The New Yorker

That was about that.

The New Yorker

"To me it's about that.

Los Angeles Times

It's about that inclination.

The New York Times

"It was about that simple".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be about that" to define the essence of a topic, event, or discussion, particularly when emphasizing its core focus or purpose. This helps establish a clear understanding of the subject matter.

Common error

Avoid using "be about that" when "that" lacks a clear or immediate antecedent. Ambiguity can confuse readers. Instead, specify what "that" refers to directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be about that" primarily functions as a linking verb phrase, indicating the essence, focus, or central topic of a subject. This is supported by Ludwig examples where the phrase defines the core content of movies, discussions, or personal priorities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be about that" is a common and generally correct way to express the central focus or intention of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While grammatically sound, it's important to ensure clarity by specifying what "that" refers to. Alternatives like "focus on that" or "pertain to that" can provide more formal or precise options when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focus on that

This option emphasizes a concentration of attention or effort on "that".

pertain to that

This alternative indicates a direct relevance or connection to "that".

revolve around that

This alternative suggests that something centrally focuses or depends on "that".

center on that

Similar to revolve around, but might imply more intentional planning.

concern that

This alternative shifts the focus to the act of something concerning or relating to "that".

address that

Emphasizes the act of formally dealing with "that".

deal with that

This phrase suggests handling or addressing "that".

discuss that

Focuses on verbal or written communication regarding "that".

regard that

Implies a consideration or thought about "that".

allude to that

This suggests an indirect reference to "that".

FAQs

What does "be about that" mean?

"Be about that" generally means to focus on, concern, or deal with something. It indicates the main topic or purpose of a discussion, event, or action.

How can I use "be about that" in a sentence?

You can use "be about that" to define the essence of a topic or to express a commitment to something. For example, "The movie will "be about that" greater thing on the other side of loss: love".

What are some alternatives to "be about that"?

Alternatives include "concern that", "revolve around that", or "focus on that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "be about that" formal or informal?

"Be about that" tends to be more informal and conversational. While it can be used in more formal settings, it's important to consider whether a more precise and formal alternative, like "pertain to that", might be more appropriate.