CARRY AROUND

"The burdens you carry around are often greater in mind than in reality, freeing them requires inner reflection and understanding."

📖 Definition

To carry around means to have something with you wherever you go, either physically, like a bag, or metaphorically, like an idea or feeling.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To carry around means to have something with you wherever you go, either physically, like a bag, or metaphorically, like an idea or feeling.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The verb and particle can be split by an object, e.g., carry a book around.
Register
Neutral
Used in casual and formal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object to complete the meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple carry around She carries around a notebook at all times.
Past Simple carried around He carried around a letter from his friend.
Present Continuous carrying around They are carrying around too much baggage.
Present Perfect have carried around I have carried around this old photo for years.

💡 When to Use

Express physical possession
Use it when discussing items physically with you as you move around, such as bags or gadgets.
Example: "I always carry around my phone for emergencies."
Convey emotional burdens
When describing emotional feelings or memories that linger with you over time, use it metaphorically.
Example: "She carries around guilt from her past mistakes."
Indicate habitual actions
Use when referring to habits involving keeping items close by, showing reliance or necessity.
Example: "He carries around a pen in his shirt pocket."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect particle placement
❌ Wrong: He around carries a camera.
✅ Correct: He carries around a camera.
💡 Tip: Keep 'carry around' together; use objects in between them.
Wrong tense usage
❌ Wrong: She carry around her laptop daily.
✅ Correct: She carries around her laptop daily.
💡 Tip: Ensure verb agrees with the subject's tense.
Confusing separable usage
❌ Wrong: Carry the bag around it.
✅ Correct: Carry it around.
💡 Tip: Split particles correctly when pronouns are used.
Practice

CARRY AROUND - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

lug around tote around

Antonyms

leave behind

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"He always ___ a toolkit in his car."

cared around
carry around
curry around
curried around

Frequently Asked Questions about Carry Around

What is the origin of carry around?

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The phrasal verb 'carry around' derives from the basic verb 'carry,' which comes from Middle English 'carien,' indicating physical transport, with 'around' adding the idea of movement or presence in various places.

Can carry around be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'carry around' can be used in both contexts. It fits informal conversation when discussing everyday objects and formal writing when referring to abstract concepts like ideas or emotional burdens.

What is the difference between carry around and lug around?

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'Carry around' implies general, habitual possession. 'Lug around' suggests effort in carrying something heavy or cumbersome. Use 'carry around' for ordinary items; 'lug around' emphasizes difficulty.
Browse All The World In Your Pocket Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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