The most common meaning of about as a preposition is ‘on the subject of’ or ‘connected with’:
Do you know anything about cricket?
I’m very worried about my brother. He’s not well.
About is not as specific as on.
| about is more general and slightly more informal. |
| on focuses on more specific and detailed information and is slightly more formal. |
There are some words we use with about:
complain, concern, excited, happy and worry:
He never complains about the pain.
Everybody was very concerned about the accident.
I’m very excited about coming to France and I can’t wait to see you.
I’m very happy about my trip.
Please don’t worry about me.
There are some words we don’t use with about:
aware, consider, description, discuss, experience and mention:
She’s not aware of the rules of the road.
Have you considered changing your career?
Can you give us a description of the bag?
Let’s discuss the new schedule.
They have no experience of looking after children.
She didn’t mention where the keys were.