supposed to be around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "supposed to be around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone or something is expected to be present in a certain location or context. Example: "I thought she was supposed to be around for the meeting, but I haven't seen her yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Every wedding has alcoholics who aren't supposed to be around alcohol.

The New York Times - Food

One of the key aims of the feed-in tariff was supposed to be around public engagement and nowhere is this more true than in schools.

The Guardian

Subtext: some of us remember how things are supposed to be around here and we're jolly well not going to give up without a fight.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Officially, there are supposed to be around 8,500, but with Special Operations forces and other units constantly rotating in and out of the country, that number is likely somewhere around 10,000 to 11,000.

The Washington Post

The purchase price is supposed to be around $25 million.

TechCrunch

The Cougar coupe is only supposed to be around another year or two.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

So when it's supposed to be carried around in packing cases, it doesn't fit.

The Guardian - Music

There was little good news Thursday out of Texas from a company that's supposed to be turning around.

Forbes

"The doctor said, you know, you're not supposed to be walking around," he said.

Huffington Post

"I'm not supposed to be up walking around more than four hours a day," he said.

The New York Times

(The most commonly used neonicotinoid, imidacloprid, is considered "highly toxic" to bees, and therefore is not supposed to be applied while they are around).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "supposed to be around", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to physical presence, availability, or some other form of participation. Clarity avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "supposed to" in your writing. While grammatically correct, varying your phrasing with alternatives like "expected to" or "meant to" enhances readability and avoids monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "supposed to be around" functions as a modal expression indicating expectation or obligation related to someone or something's presence or availability. Ludwig examples show its use in expressing anticipated presence, whether fulfilled or not.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "supposed to be around" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express an expectation of presence or availability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English and applicable across various contexts, although its appropriateness varies depending on the formality of the situation. While versatile, varying your phrasing with alternatives may enhance your writing style. Remember to clarify the context to avoid ambiguity and ensure that the phrasing matches the level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meant to be present

Emphasizes intention or pre-arrangement for someone's presence.

expected to be available

Highlights anticipation of someone's accessibility.

scheduled to attend

Focuses on a planned or timetabled appearance.

required to be there

Stresses obligation or necessity of presence.

due to be present

Indicates a formal expectation or planned arrival.

anticipated to arrive

Highlights the expectation of someone's coming.

slated to participate

Implies a formal inclusion in an event or activity.

set to appear

Suggests a confirmed or arranged appearance.

purported to exist nearby

Highlights rumors or hearsay about existence in close proximity.

alleged to be in the vicinity

Indicates an unconfirmed or questionable presence nearby.

FAQs

How can I use "supposed to be around" in a sentence?

Use "supposed to be around" to indicate an expectation of presence or availability. For example, "She was "supposed to be around" for the meeting, but she didn't show up".

What are some alternatives to "supposed to be around"?

You can use alternatives like "expected to be present", "meant to be there", or "scheduled to attend" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I was suppose to be around"?

No, the correct phrasing is "I was "supposed to be around"". The word "supposed" includes the -d ending. "Suppose" is the base verb, while "supposed" is used to form the past participle.

What is the difference between "supposed to be around" and "expected to be around"?

"Supposed to be around" implies a prior agreement or arrangement, while "expected to be around" suggests an anticipation based on circumstances or routine. The former is based on a plan, the latter on an inference.