Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Kick Around"
Phrasal verbs are the building blocks of natural English conversation, and few are as versatile as kick around. Depending on the context, this phrase can describe anything from physical mistreatment to the casual act of brainstorming a new idea. Whether you are reading a classic novel or chatting with friends at a cafe, knowing how to kick around effectively will help you sound much more like a native speaker.
The Many Meanings of "Kick Around"
The beauty of this phrasal verb lies in its flexibility. Generally, it falls into three distinct categories of usage:
1. To Treat Someone Badly or Abuse Them
In this context, kick around is often used figuratively to describe someone who feels bullied, disrespected, or pushed around by others. It implies that a person has been treated as if they have no worth.
- "I am tired of being kicked around by my boss; it is time for me to look for a new job."
- "They won't have me to kick around any more!" (A famous quote famously used by Richard Nixon).
2. To Be Present, Active, or Available
When you use the term this way, you are talking about the state of existing or staying in a particular place. It is a very casual way to ask if someone is still alive, living in a town, or still hanging out in a specific area.
- "Does the old man still kick around, or did he move to Florida?"
- "I have been kicking around this city for ten years now."
3. To Discuss or Consider Ideas Lightly
In professional or creative settings, kick around means to introduce an idea, suggestion, or plan without committing to it immediately. It is perfect for the early stages of a project.
- "Let’s kick around a few marketing strategies before we meet with the client."
- "We were just kicking around the idea of going on a road trip this summer."
Grammar Patterns and Usage
Kick around is a separable phrasal verb when used in the context of ideas. This means you can place the object between the two words:
- "Let's kick a few ideas around." (Correct)
- "Let's kick around a few ideas." (Correct)
However, when using it to mean "hanging out" or "existing," it is usually inseparable. You would say "He is kicking around the house" rather than "He is kicking the house around" (which would sound like you are physically attacking the building!).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake learners make is confusing kick around with kick off or kick back. Remember that kick off usually refers to starting something, while kick back refers to relaxing. If you say you want to "kick back" an idea, people might be confused! Always ensure the context matches the specific definition you intend to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "kick around" considered formal English?
No, it is definitely informal. It is best suited for casual conversation, emails with colleagues you know well, or storytelling. Avoid using it in highly formal essays or professional legal documents.
Is there a difference between "kicking around" and "kicking about"?
In British English, you might hear people say "kicking about" instead of "kicking around." They essentially mean the same thing, though "around" is more common in American English.
Can I use "kick around" for objects?
Yes. If you have some loose change or old books lying in your room, you can say, "There are some old magazines kicking around the living room."
Conclusion
Mastering phrasal verbs like kick around is an essential step toward fluency. By learning to kick around your ideas in conversation, you can express yourself with more nuance and ease. Start by practicing the "discussing ideas" usage in your next meeting or casual conversation, and you will quickly see how natural it feels to incorporate this phrase into your daily vocabulary.