circle around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "circle around" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a motion where a person or object moves around another object or person in a circular motion. For example: She circled around the room, admiring all the decor.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I circle around.

The New York Times

I circle around and around.

The New Yorker

He watched the cows circle around to the backcountry.

The New Yorker

This will keep your target centered while you circle around.

WikiHow

So they circle around.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We circle around the table.

The Economist

They circle around.

The Guardian - Music

He keeps a tight circle around him.

The New York Times

We all formed a circle around him.

The New York Times

He drew a circle around the nineteenth.

The New Yorker

"They'll make a big circle around town".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "circle around" to describe physical movement around an object or abstract discussions that keep returning to a central theme.

Common error

Avoid using "circle around" when the intended meaning is simply to move forward or progress directly. The phrase specifically indicates a circular or recurring motion, not a linear one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "circle around" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, describing movement in a circular motion or the recurrence of a topic. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

31%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "circle around" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrasal verb, commonly used to depict physical movement in a circular path or the recurring nature of a topic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to academic discussions. While alternatives like "revolve around" or "orbit around" may be appropriate depending on the nuance you wish to convey, remember that "circle around" specifically implies a cyclical or repetitive motion. Avoid using it when a linear movement is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revolve around

Focuses on the idea of something being central or the main topic.

orbit around

Implies a cyclical movement, often with a sense of dependency.

move around

Describes a general movement in a circular or undefined path.

gather around

Suggests assembling in a circular formation, often for a common purpose.

congregate around

Similar to 'gather around' but implies a more formal or organized assembly.

skirt around

Means to avoid direct engagement with a topic or issue, moving around it indirectly.

wind around

Indicates a twisting or turning movement around something.

dance around

Suggests playful or evasive movement around a subject.

encompass

Indicates surrounding or including something within a defined space or concept.

hem in

Implies restricting movement by surrounding or enclosing.

FAQs

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

You can use "circle around" to describe a physical movement, like "The dancers "circle around" the stage", or a recurring topic, such as "The debate continues to "circle around" the issue of funding".

What does "circle around" mean?

The phrase "circle around" generally means to move in a circular path around something, or to repeatedly return to a particular topic or idea.

Are there alternatives to the phrase "circle around"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use phrases like "revolve around", "orbit around", or "move around".

Is it correct to use "circle around" in formal writing?

Yes, "circle around" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing abstract concepts or recurring themes. However, consider /s/more+formal+alternatives more formal alternatives if the context demands it.