English Reference

Phrasal verb

hear about sb/sth

Definition

phrasal verb. To be told some news or information about someone or something.

phrasal verb. To receive information or news regarding a person, thing, or event, typically through communication from others.

Examples

“Did you hear about the new manager?”

“I just heard about the concert on the radio; we should get tickets.”

“It was only through a forgotten letter that she finally heard about her grandfather's true involvement in the war.”

Examples

simple

“Did you hear about the new manager?”

contextual

“I just heard about the concert on the radio; we should get tickets.”

complex

“It was only through a forgotten letter that she finally heard about her grandfather's true involvement in the war.”

Usage

Often used to ask for or share news, gossip, or recent events.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'hear of' (to know of the existence of something/someone) and 'hear from' (to receive direct communication from someone).

Pitfall

Did you hear the party?

Did you hear about the party?

'Hear' means to perceive a sound, while 'hear about' means to be told information.

Phrasal verb

Particles

about

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

hear + about + object

Synonyms

find out aboutbe told aboutlearn of

Antonyms

be unaware ofnot know aboutbe kept in the dark

Grammar

This entry

Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference