The word about can be used an adverb or a preposition. When about is used as a preposition, it will be followed by a noun.
About can mean in various directions or places.
- Clothes were lying about the room.
- The children were running about the garden.
About can also mean ‘near’ or ‘near by’.
- Is anybody about?
The expression ‘How about?’ is used to ask someone what their opinion is. Note that after ‘how about’ we use a noun or an –ing form.
- How about getting something to eat?
- He is a rich guy but how about his character?
About can mean ‘roughly’.
- It is about 3 o’clock.
- There were about 50 students in the class.
Above
The word above can be used as a preposition or an adverb. ‘Above’ means ‘higher than’, ‘greater than’ or ‘more than’.
- She is above average in intelligence.
- The water rose above my knees.
If you think you are above something, you are too proud to do it.
- He thinks he is above mingling with us. (= He is too proud to mingle with us.)
- Nobody is above law.
If something is above you, it is too difficult for you.
- Einstein’s theories have always been above me. (= I have always had difficulty understanding Einstein’s theories.)
Above-board
If a business deal is above board, it is thoroughly honest.
