making the rounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "making the rounds" is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually implies that something is being shared or discussed widely. For example, "The rumor about the company's buyout has been making the rounds on social media."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The video had been making the rounds.

The New Yorker

It is making the rounds.

The New York Times

Resolutely, he keeps making the rounds.

The New York Times - Books

Some other scuttlebutt is making the rounds.

The New York Times - Sports

One nutty story after another, making the rounds.

The New York Times - Books

A story is making the rounds in Florida.

The New Yorker

Junius was on the Rockadile, making the rounds.

The New Yorker

Art's sacred monsters are making the rounds instead.

The New York Times - Arts

Here is a selection of other tweets making the rounds.

The Guardian

The Taylor Swift Playbook is making the rounds.

The New York Times - Arts

This very funny email is making the rounds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "making the rounds" to indicate that information, rumors, or even people are circulating widely. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "making the rounds" when referring to something known only within a very limited group. The phrase implies a broader distribution.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "making the rounds" is that of a verb phrase, often serving as the predicate of a sentence. As shown by Ludwig, it describes an action of something being actively circulated or distributed. It describes an action being actively circulated or distributed, be it information, items, or individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Making the rounds" is a verb phrase signifying that something is being widely circulated or discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards informal depending on the specific context. Related phrases include "circulating" and "going around". When using this phrase, remember that it implies broad distribution, and be mindful of the specific context to ensure appropriate formality. In summary, "making the rounds" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate widespread dissemination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doing the rounds

A very close synonym, implying a similar level of formal or informal distribution.

going around

A more informal way to say something is being spread, like a rumor or illness.

being spread

Simple and direct way of saying information is being distributed.

circulating

Focuses on the act of something being passed around or spread.

in wide distribution

Emphasizes that something is available across a broad area or to many people.

in circulation

Highlights the state of something being available and passed among people.

being disseminated

Emphasizes the formal and widespread distribution of information.

making the rounds of

Focuses on visiting multiple places or people in a sequential manner.

being bandied about

Implies the idea or topic is being discussed casually and perhaps superficially.

gaining traction

Indicates increasing acceptance or popularity of an idea or item.

FAQs

How can I use "making the rounds" in a sentence?

You can use "making the rounds" to describe something being widely circulated or discussed. For example, "A new rumor is "going around" about the company's future plans" or "The flu is "spreading" rapidly, so take precautions."

What does "making the rounds" mean?

"Making the rounds" typically means that something (like information or an item) is circulating or being shared widely among a group of people or in various locations. It implies dissemination and broad reach.

What are some alternative ways to say "making the rounds"?

Alternatives include "circulating", "being disseminated", "going around", or "in circulation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "making the rounds" a formal or informal expression?

"Making the rounds" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although alternatives like "being disseminated" might be preferred in highly formal situations.