give about
C1 formal separable transitive
In simple words
To give something to several people by passing it around.
Literal meaning: To give something in various directions, spreading it around.
Meanings
1 C1 formal
To distribute something among a group of people; to pass something around.
"The pamphlets were given about to all who attended the meeting."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Extremely rare in modern English. Found mainly in older texts or in certain regional British dialects. Modern speakers would universally prefer 'give out,' 'hand out,' or 'pass around.' ESL learners are unlikely to encounter this in everyday use.
Commonly used with
copies leaflets food alms notices
Forms
Base
give about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gives about
he/she/it
Past simple
gave about
yesterday
Past participle
given about
have + pp
-ing form
giving about
continuous
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