Wait around

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phrasal verb

To stay in a place doing very little until something happens, someone arrives or you can leave.

I've been waiting around at the station for over an hour!
Visual representation of "wait around" - To stay in a place doing very little until something happens, someone arrives or you can leave.

Often appears as...

  • waiting around for someone
  • wait around all day

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "wait around"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Expectation Involved

Use 'wait around' when you expect something or someone later on.

Illustration for Expectation Involved
I'll wait around for the mail to come before going out.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Passive Activity

'Wait around' implies a passive state, often without any specific activity.

Illustration for Passive Activity
She was just waiting around at home, doing nothing.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Uncertainty

Use when the duration you have to wait is uncertain or feels long.

Illustration for Time Uncertainty
We waited around for hours, hoping for some news.
Visual representation of the word "Wait around"

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