cat around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cat around" is not standard in written English. It may be intended to convey a sense of playfulness or casualness, but it is not commonly used. An example could be: "They were just catting around in the backyard." Alternative expressions could be "fooling around," "messing around," or "playing around."

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"A lot of our customers are students who are very fond of having a cat around," Mr. Levi said, "probably because they have left pets back home or are lonely, and she reminds them of that".

The New York Times

After watching her chase Jasper, the cat, around, around and around the house, he determined that she obviously had rhythm.

Los Angeles Times

It was like chasing a chicken or a cat around.

The New York Times - Sports

Until recently, he kept a cat around, which he named Socrate.

The New Yorker

They tried following the cat around, filming his every cute move, but nothing was working.

The New Yorker

A reporter who once met him described him to me as "nervous as a cat around rocking chairs".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

And maybe there'd be some cats around, if we looked.

The New Yorker

We see Ted catting around, we see Sylvia throwing a horror show at a dinner party.

The New York Times

Such a mouse, "bent on confirming its belief that there are no cats around," would soon be dinner.

The New Yorker

But in an era of easily followed digital footprints, the chances of catting around and being caught are greater than ever.

The New York Times

The cat, still around, has to be 50.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Cat around" can have different implications (playfulness, infidelity) so choose it when those meanings are intended. If you prefer to keep the text accessible stick to phrases like "mess around" or "fool around".

Common error

Avoid using "cat around" if you need to guarantee clarity, as it could be misinterpreted. For general situations, "play around", "fool around", or "mess around" are safer choices to make sure your point is well delivered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cat around" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, often implying either playful, idle behavior or, in some contexts, infidelity. Ludwig's examples illustrate both senses, showing its varied usage in news, media, and informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cat around" can describe either playful idleness or, less commonly, infidelity. According to Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, but it is not considered a standard or formal expression. While grammatically acceptable, it's important to use it carefully to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations. For more formal settings, alternatives like "fool around" or "play around" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fool around

A more common and widely understood phrase for general playful or unproductive behavior.

mess around

Similar to "fool around", this phrase also implies playful or unproductive activity, but can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

play around

A simple and direct alternative that focuses on the playful aspect.

lounge around

Implies relaxing or idling in a lazy or casual way.

hang around

Suggests spending time idly or without a specific purpose.

dawdle around

Indicates moving slowly and without purpose.

tarry around

A more formal way of saying "linger" or "delay" in a place.

drift around

Suggests moving aimlessly from place to place.

kick around

Implies discussing or considering something casually.

bum around

Indicates spending time idly and avoiding work.

FAQs

How can I use "cat around" in a sentence?

You can use "cat around" to describe someone behaving playfully or idly, as in, "The children were just catting around in the backyard." However, be aware that the phrase isn't standard and might not be universally understood.

What does "cat around" mean in the context of infidelity?

In some contexts, "cat around" can be a euphemism for infidelity or "sleeping around". For example, "He was accused of catting around during his marriage."

What can I say instead of "cat around" to describe playful behavior?

Alternatives include "fool around", "mess around", or "play around". These phrases are more common and generally understood to mean engaging in playful or unserious activity.

Is "cat around" a formal or informal expression?

"Cat around" is generally considered an informal expression. In formal writing or speech, it's better to use alternatives like "behave unprofessionally" (if referring to infidelity), or "engage in recreational activities" (if referring to playfulness).