Be on about something
phrasal verb
To talk about something persistently or obsessively.
Alice is always on about healthy living, it can get tiresome sometimes.
Often appears as...
- always on about
- never on about
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrasal verb
To talk about a subject in an indirect or roundabout way.
I was a little confused about what he was on about in his speech.
Often appears as...
- on about that
- on about this
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrasal verb
To warn or advise someone repeatedly about something.
My mom is always on about the importance of good grades.
Often appears as...
- always on about
- on about the importance of
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrasal verb
To talk about something persistently or obsessively.
Alice is always on about healthy living, it can get tiresome sometimes.
Often appears as...
- always on about
- never on about
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrasal verb
To talk about a subject in an indirect or roundabout way.
I was a little confused about what he was on about in his speech.
Often appears as...
- on about that
- on about this
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrasal verb
To warn or advise someone repeatedly about something.
My mom is always on about the importance of good grades.
Often appears as...
- always on about
- on about the importance of
Usage tips
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Persistent Topic
When someone constantly talks about the same subject, they're 'on about' it.
Are you still on about moving to Canada?
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Annoyance
This phrase can imply that the speaker finds the topic repetitive or irritating.
You've been on about that band for hours!
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Interest
Indicates the person has a deep interest in the topic.
He's always on about environmental issues.
Pro Tip 1/3Persistent Topic
When someone constantly talks about the same subject, they're 'on about' it.
Are you still on about moving to Canada?
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Annoyance
This phrase can imply that the speaker finds the topic repetitive or irritating.
You've been on about that band for hours!
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Interest
Indicates the person has a deep interest in the topic.
He's always on about environmental issues.
Pro Tip 1/3Persistent Topic
When someone constantly talks about the same subject, they're 'on about' it.
Are you still on about moving to Canada?
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Annoyance
This phrase can imply that the speaker finds the topic repetitive or irritating.
You've been on about that band for hours!
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Interest
Indicates the person has a deep interest in the topic.
He's always on about environmental issues.
Never forget "Be on about something"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension