About to

Meaning

The idiom "about to" is used to describe a situation or event that is very close to happening or occurring. It can also indicate that something is soon to happen, or that someone is about to do something. The figurative meaning of the idiom suggests that the action or event being described is imminent and likely to occur in the near future.

Usage

• I'm about to finish my project, let's celebrate!
• The storm is about to hit the city, we need to evacuate.
• She's about to leave for her vacation, I'll miss her.
• He's about to propose to her tonight.
• We were about to have lunch when the power went out. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. In the first sentence, "about to finish" suggests that the project is already in progress and will be completed soon. In the second sentence, "about to hit" implies a sense of urgency and danger. In the third sentence, "about to leave" suggests that the vacation is imminent and will begin shortly. In the fourth sentence, "about to propose" indicates that the proposal is already being planned and will happen soon. In the fifth sentence, "about to have lunch" implies that the power outage is unexpected and will delay the meal.

Roots and History

The idiom "about to" has been in use since at least the 17th century. It was first used in a literal sense to mean "intending to" or "preparing to," but over time it has taken on a more figurative meaning that suggests imminence or urgency. The idiom is also related to the phrase "on the point of," which has been used with similar meaning since at least the 16th century.

Synonyms in English

• On the verge of
• Close to
• At hand
• Right around the corner
• In the offing

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: a punto de suceder, a punto de comenzar
• French: sur le point de se produire, à l'âge d'être
• German: am Rande von, gerade eben
• Italian: sull'orlo di, pronto a
• Japanese: 準備されている, すぐにある

Similar Idioms

• by far

• a needle in a haystack

• armed to the teeth