1 B1 neutral
To move rapidly in multiple directions with sudden, agile changes of course.
"Small fish darted about in the shallows, startled by our shadows."
inseparable
dart about
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To move rapidly and repeatedly in different directions with sudden changes of course.
In plain English
To keep moving quickly from one place to another, changing direction suddenly like a fish or a bird.
What does "dart about" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To move busily from place to place, especially doing many different things in quick succession.
"She darted about the kitchen, setting the table, stirring pots, and answering questions all at once."
inseparable
3 B2 neutral
Of eyes or glances: to move rapidly in different directions.
"His eyes darted about the room, checking for anyone he recognised."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To dart (move suddenly) about (in various directions).
Actually means
To keep moving quickly from one place to another, changing direction suddenly like a fish or a bird.
Usage tip
Commonly used to describe the movement of small, agile creatures (fish, birds, insects) or children. Can describe eye movement or thoughts. Conveys energy and unpredictability. Found in both British and American English.
Words that pair with "dart about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
fish eyes birds children thoughts insects
How to conjugate "dart about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
dart about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
darts about
he/she/it
Past simple
darted about
yesterday
Past participle
darted about
have + pp
-ing form
darting about
continuous
Hear "dart about" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "dart about" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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