1 B2 idiomatic informal
To mention or use a name, word, or idea repeatedly and carelessly in conversation.
"His name has been bandied about as a possible replacement for the retiring CEO."
separable
bandy about
B2 informal separable transitive
To mention or use a word, name, or idea repeatedly and carelessly, often without full understanding.
In plain English
To keep using a word or someone's name in conversation without really thinking about what it means or whether it is right.
What does "bandy about" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic informal
To exchange words or arguments back and forth, especially in a quarrelsome or playful way.
"They bandied words about for ten minutes before anyone made a real point."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
'Bandy' originally meant to toss or hit back and forth, as in a ball game; 'bandy about' retains the idea of something being passed around carelessly.
Actually means
To keep using a word or someone's name in conversation without really thinking about what it means or whether it is right.
Usage tip
Often carries a negative tone, suggesting carelessness, gossip, or misuse. Commonly used with 'name,' 'word,' 'figure,' or 'idea.' More common in British English than American.
Words that pair with "bandy about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
name word figure idea term accusation
How to conjugate "bandy about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bandy about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bandies about
he/she/it
Past simple
bandied about
yesterday
Past participle
bandied about
have + pp
-ing form
bandying about
continuous
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