float around

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "float around" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe something, usually an idea, that is not being acted upon and is just being discussed. For example: "The idea of a summer vacation to the beach has been floating around for a while, but we still haven't made any concrete plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You float around uncontrollably for 30 seconds.

The Guardian

These branes float around in an 11th dimension.

The Economist

"I'm just gonna float around on the raft".

The New Yorker

Such particles do not just float around unchanged.

The Economist

You can't float around like that with debt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lets me float around invisible killing people I don't know.

The New Yorker

In Central Park-Pinafore could float around the center of Reservoir.

The New Yorker

Anything not secured can float around in the cabin, bouncing off things and people.

Independent

He added: "I wish Ron would condemn these fringe things that float around because of Rockwell.

The New York Times

Sometimes the floor seems to vanish and the two women float around as if suspended.

The New York Times - Arts

"Jazz is the kind of music you can float around to.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing movement in zero gravity, use "float around" to accurately portray the lack of fixed direction.

Common error

Avoid using "float around" when describing movement on land where gravity is a factor; instead, opt for verbs like "walk", "stroll", or "wander" to better reflect the physical constraints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "float around" functions primarily as an intransitive verb phrase, describing a state of undirected movement or existence. Examples from Ludwig show it used to depict physical objects suspended in air or liquids, as well as abstract concepts like ideas or rumors.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "float around" is a versatile verb phrase that effectively conveys undirected movement or circulation, whether physical or metaphorical. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase suits neutral registers and serves to depict aimlessness or suspension. While alternatives like "drift about" and "hover nearby" exist, "float around" uniquely captures a sense of gentle, unanchored movement, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drift about

Emphasizes aimless movement or lack of direction.

hover nearby

Focuses on remaining in close proximity without a fixed position.

circulate freely

Highlights the uninhibited movement or spread of something, like rumors or ideas.

wander aimlessly

Stresses the lack of a specific goal or destination in the movement.

hang around

Implies a casual and relaxed presence in a particular place.

be suspended

Focuses on the state of being held up or supported, often in a non-physical sense.

remain available

Emphasizes the accessibility or readiness of something.

be in the air

Suggests something is present or circulating, often referring to rumors or suggestions.

spread about

Highlights the dissemination or distribution of something.

move gently

Focuses on the smooth and unhurried nature of the movement.

FAQs

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

You can use "float around" to describe something moving without a clear direction, like "Dust particles float around in the air" or to describe ideas being discussed but not acted upon, like "Rumors float around the office before announcements".

What are some alternatives to "float around"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "drift about", "hover nearby", or "circulate freely".

Is it correct to use "float around" to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "float around" can be used metaphorically to describe abstract concepts, such as ideas or rumors, that are circulating or being discussed without a definite direction or resolution. For example, "The idea of a new policy is floating around the administration".

What is the difference between "float around" and "drift around"?

"Float around" often implies a lack of gravity or effort, while "drift around" suggests a passive movement influenced by external forces. Both can be used to describe aimless movement, but "drift around" might be more appropriate when external factors are involved.