tossed around

USAGE SUMMARY

"tossed around" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has been discussed or debated without any resolution. For example, "While the idea of expanding the business was tossed around, no one was able to come up with a viable plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Expletives have been tossed around.

The New York Times

A blow-up globe is tossed around.

The New York Times

The term trailblazer is tossed around frequently.

Columbia University

Money was also tossed around.

The New York Times - Magazine

The phrase "concrete bunker" was tossed around.

The New York Times

The capsule is being tossed around.

MIT Technology Review

Cans of beer are tossed around.

The New York Times

The word retraining is tossed around.

The New York Times

"But he was getting tossed around pretty well".

The New York Times

The word "lies" has been tossed around freely.

The New York Times

The Raiders tossed around the Jets' defense, amassing 383 yards.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tossed around" when you want to convey that an idea, term, or object has been discussed or handled without much seriousness or finality. It suggests a lack of focused action or decision-making.

Common error

While "tossed around" is acceptable in many contexts, be cautious of using it too frequently in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "discussed", "considered", or "debated" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tossed around" functions as a phrasal verb. Ludwig AI identifies its primary use in describing discussions or debates without resolution, or physical objects moved roughly. It often conveys a lack of seriousness or focused action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Wiki

6%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tossed around" is a commonly used phrasal verb that indicates casual handling or discussion of ideas, terms, or objects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalence across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally appropriate for neutral settings, writers should consider more formal alternatives in academic or scientific writing to maintain a professional tone. Be mindful of the context to determine if "tossed around" effectively conveys the intended meaning of casual handling or discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bandied about

Refers to ideas or rumors being discussed casually and often widely.

kicked around

Implies discussing ideas or plans, often informally and without reaching a conclusion.

thrown about

Indicates something being moved roughly or without care.

floated

Suggests an idea or suggestion being introduced for consideration.

circulated

Describes information or rumors spreading among people.

discussed at length

Emphasizes a thorough and detailed conversation about a topic.

debated

Refers to a formal discussion or argument on a particular topic.

considered

Suggests an idea being thought about carefully.

passed around

Implies the physical act of giving something from one person to another.

messed around

Indicates careless or playful handling of something, or avoiding serious or useful activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "tossed around" to indicate that something (like an idea or object) has been discussed or handled without much care or seriousness. For example, "The idea was "kicked around" for weeks, but no decision was made."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "tossed around"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "bandied about", "discussed", "considered", or "debated".

Is it correct to use "tossed around" to describe physical objects?

Yes, "tossed around" can describe physical objects being moved roughly. For example, "The storm ripped off their roof, shattered the windows and tossed around their possessions."

What is the difference between "tossed around" and "thrown around"?

"Tossed around" and "thrown around" are very similar, but "tossed" can imply a lighter, less forceful action than "thrown". Both indicate careless handling, but "thrown" might suggest more force or violence.