floating around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "floating around" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is generally used to talk about ideas or information that is widely circulated or discussed but without any source being named. For example, "There are different versions of the story floating around, so it's hard to know what actually happened."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Day 3, I started floating around".

The New York Times

"Butterflies will be floating around tomorrow.

The New York Times - Sports

There aren't too many floating around".

The New York Times

Do you have any guilt from unread books floating around?

The New Yorker

"Way too many 'rad dads' floating around," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The tentacles are like "loose spaghetti" floating around, he said.

The New York Times

"Weird, huh, that there's a dick floating around in me?

The New Yorker

They have both been floating around in a dream world.

Independent

This idea has been floating around in some Republican circles.

The New York Times

He said too many rumors were floating around to ignore.

The New York Times - Sports

There are other proposals floating around too.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "floating around" when you want to describe ideas, rumors, or objects that are present in a nonspecific or somewhat aimless way. For example, "There are rumors "floating around" about the company's future."

Common error

Be cautious when using "floating around" in contexts where a more precise term for movement or existence is needed. Avoid using it when describing controlled or intentional movement, as it implies a degree of randomness or lack of direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "floating around" functions as a phrasal verb, often used adjectivally to describe the state of nouns, be they concrete objects, rumors or ideas, as shown in Ludwig's examples like "rumors were floating around". It indicates a lack of specific direction or origin.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "floating around" is a versatile phrasal verb commonly used to describe the nonspecific presence or circulation of ideas, rumors, or objects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage, especially in News & Media. While adaptable, it's essential to consider the context, as more precise language might be preferable in formal or scientific writing. Remember that "floating around" implies a degree of randomness or lack of specific direction, which should align with the intended meaning. The prevalence of examples from sources such as The New York Times and Huffington Post attests to its acceptability in mainstream communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

circulating

Focuses on the movement and spread of information or items.

drifting about

Emphasizes a lack of direction or purpose in the movement.

being discussed

Highlights the conversational aspect of an idea or topic.

making the rounds

Suggests widespread distribution and familiarity.

in circulation

Implies active movement or availability.

present

Simply indicates existence or availability in a certain area or context.

in the air

Suggests an intangible presence or feeling.

making its way

Emphasizes the process of spreading or moving.

doing the rounds

Similar to "making the rounds", implies widespread sharing.

in motion

Focuses on the state of movement or progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "floating around" to describe ideas, rumors, or objects that are present in a nonspecific way. For example, "Several proposals are "floating around" regarding the budget cuts."

What are some alternatives to "floating around"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "circulating", "being discussed", or "in circulation".

Is it appropriate to use "floating around" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "floating around" leans towards informal usage. In formal writing, consider more precise and professional alternatives if appropriate.

What does it mean when something is described as "floating around"?

It typically means that something (like an idea or object) is present or circulating in an environment without a specific origin or direction, often implying a degree of randomness or lack of control.