finds out about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "finds out about" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to learn or discover information about someone or something. Example: She finally finds out about his secret identity as a superhero after stumbling upon his hidden lair.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No-one ever finds out about it.

The Guardian - Sport

But Obe's former best friend Tommy finds out about his pet.

The Washington Post

Adam Walton finds out about the biggest brain research project ever held in Wales.

BBC

The public rarely finds out about NDAs.

Huffington Post

It goes to every high point and everybody finds out about it".

Los Angeles Times

When Kyle finds out about the ghost his brother is encountering, he is terrified.

Wikipedia

Do make sure that no one finds out about your club.

WikiHow

That's the millions Oliver finds out about.

The Guardian - Books

She finds out about the town from him.

The New Yorker

Dale will be furious when she finds out about this.

The Guardian - Film

She usually finds out about them through someone else.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "finds out about" when you want to emphasize the process of discovering information, rather than simply stating a fact. For example, "She finds out about the surprise party just before it happens."

Common error

Avoid omitting "about" when the object of discovery is clear. Saying "She finds out his secret" is grammatically correct but can sound less natural than "She finds out about his secret".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finds out about" functions as a phrasal verb indicating the action of discovering or learning information. It is commonly used to describe the moment someone becomes aware of something, as shown by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "finds out about" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the process of discovering or learning information. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers numerous examples in various contexts. While "finds out about" enjoys broad applicability, it is critical to consider its appropriate register, generally neutral, and to avoid related errors such as omitting "about" when the object of discovery is explicit. Alternatives such as "discovers", "learns of", and "becomes aware of" may be preferable depending on the desired formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discovers

A more concise and direct alternative, suitable when the process of finding out is less important than the act of discovery itself.

learns of

A slightly more formal alternative, often used when the information is significant or surprising.

finds the truth about

Emphasizes the discovery of an accurate piece of information after a period of searching or investigation.

becomes aware of

Emphasizes the shift in understanding or knowledge, often implying a gradual realization.

comes to know

Emphasizes the process of getting knowledge, often implying a personal or direct experience.

detects

Suggests a subtle or investigative process of uncovering information, implying some difficulty in finding out.

ascertains

A highly formal alternative, indicating a careful and deliberate effort to determine something.

unearths

Implies a more thorough and deliberate investigation, as if digging to find something buried.

uncovers

Similar to 'unearths', but can also mean revealing information that was intentionally hidden.

gets wind of

An informal idiom indicating that someone has heard a rumor or piece of information, often through indirect means.

FAQs

How to use "finds out about" in a sentence?

You can use "finds out about" to describe the process of discovering or learning information. For example: "He finds out about the company's financial troubles." It's often used when the discovery is somewhat unexpected or reveals something previously unknown.

What can I say instead of "finds out about"?

You can use alternatives like "discovers", "learns of", or "becomes aware of" depending on the context. Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance in the way the information is acquired.

Which is correct, "finds out about" or "finds out"?

Both "finds out" and "finds out about" can be correct, but they are used differently. "Finds out about" is used when you are specifying what is being discovered. "Finds out" can be used more generally, or when the object is already clear from the context.

What's the difference between "finds out about" and "learns about"?

"Finds out about" often implies a more active or accidental discovery process, while "learns about" suggests a more intentional or formal process of acquiring knowledge.