got about that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got about that" is not standard in written English and may be considered incorrect or unclear.
It could be used in informal spoken contexts, but it lacks clarity in written form without additional context. Example: "I completely got about that meeting we had scheduled for today."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

During the dotcom boom, the idea got about that there could be such a thing as a free lunch, or at least free internet services.

The Economist

Do you know how many calls we got about that one?

The New York Times

She said, 'Destiny has shaped my end.' Paar threw it to me and I went into the commercial, which began, 'No matter what size or shape can you have, the Reliance can opener can handle it.' I got about that far and I was finished".

The New York Times - Arts

Michael Billington of this parish, a keen Shavian, wonders how "the idea has got about that Shaw is a dated, didactic old windbag with little to offer us today, when in fact he anticipated every theatrical trend of the 20th century".

The Guardian - Opinion

The rumor got about that we would sail that evening, but late in the afternoon the skipper told me we weren't going to.

The New Yorker

It got about that there would be wolves and so on, and no sheep, and that no local people would be involved.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"It's easily the number one issue in the Bible … but how many sermons do you get about that?

The Guardian

Atolls to the south get about double that.

Huffington Post

"Obviously I have got concerns about that.

The Guardian

He got about $400 in that job, the police said.

The New York Times

"You'll get some jokes about that".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "got about that" in formal writing. Instead, opt for clearer and more precise alternatives like "forgot about that" or "the rumor spread that" to enhance readability.

Common error

A frequent mistake is using "got about that" when a more specific phrase like "became known" or "was rumored" would more accurately reflect the intended meaning and improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got about that" functions as a colloquial expression often indicating the spread of information or a general awareness. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it's not always grammatically correct and lacks precision. It's frequently used to introduce a rumor or belief.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while "got about that" is used to indicate the spread of information or a growing awareness, it's often considered grammatically questionable and imprecise. Ludwig AI identifies it as potentially incorrect, suggesting clearer alternatives for formal contexts. Its usage is more common in informal settings and news reporting, as highlighted by its frequent occurrence in media sources. When writing, consider more precise phrases like "forgot about that", "the rumor spread that", or "it became known that" to enhance clarity and grammatical correctness. While understandable in casual conversation, avoid it in professional or academic writing for clearer communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forgot about that

This alternative suggests a complete lack of memory or awareness concerning something.

the rumor spread that

This alternative emphasizes the dissemination of a rumor or piece of information.

it became known that

This alternative indicates the establishment of awareness or information among a group.

the idea emerged that

This alternative highlights the origin and development of an idea or concept.

it was understood that

This alternative emphasizes a mutual agreement or shared understanding.

it was rumored that

This alternative specifically refers to information spread through rumors.

people believed that

This alternative indicates a widespread belief among a group of people.

word got around that

This alternative emphasizes the informal spread of information through gossip or casual conversation.

the perception grew that

This alternative indicates an increasing or evolving viewpoint.

it was suggested that

This alternative implies a proposal or recommendation was made.

FAQs

What's a clearer way to say "got about that"?

Consider alternatives like "forgot about that", "the rumor spread that", or "it became known that" for better clarity.

Is "got about that" grammatically correct?

While sometimes used informally, "got about that" isn't considered grammatically correct in formal writing. Opt for more precise and standard phrasing.

When can I use "got about that"?

It might be acceptable in very informal spoken language, but it is best to avoid it in written communication. Choose more direct alternatives to enhance clarity.

What are some phrases similar to "got about that"?

You can use phrases like "the idea emerged that" or "it was understood that" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.