Toss around
/tɔs əˈraʊnd/
phrasal verbB1phrasal verb, base form
Definition
"Toss around" is a phrasal verb with two main uses. First, it means to talk about ideas or plans in an informal way, often sharing many thoughts quickly. Second, it means to throw or move something lightly or carelessly from one place or person to another.
Was this helpful?
See It in Action
To discuss or consider ideas informally
- •We tossed around some ideas for the party last night.
- •The team tossed around different plans before choosing one.
- •They tossed around the possibility of moving to a new city.
To throw or move something lightly or carelessly
- •The kids tossed the ball around in the backyard.
- •She tossed the papers around on her desk looking for the report.
- •The waves tossed the small boat around in the water.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "toss around" like "throw" (A1 word), but softer and less serious, like playing catch rather than a strong throw
- ✓Picture a group of friends sitting and throwing a small ball to each other while talking about different ideas
- ✓It's the feeling of sharing thoughts freely without pressure or careful planning
- ✓Sounds like "toss around" → imagine tossing a ball around a circle of people, passing it casually
- ✓Imagine brainstorming in a meeting where people "toss around" different ideas like passing a ball
- ✓NOT like "throw" (strong or serious action), "toss around" is lighter or more playful
- ✓NOT like "decide" (final choice), "toss around" means just thinking or talking about options without deciding yet
- ✓In physical sense, NOT like "drop" (letting go without control), "toss around" means a gentle, controlled throw
Try Other Words
- •Throw lightly: meaning to throw something gently (Use when emphasizing the physical action)
- •Discuss informally: meaning to talk about ideas without formal decisions (Use when focusing on idea sharing)
- •Consider: meaning to think about options (Use when the discussion is more thoughtful but still informal)
- •Chat about: meaning to talk casually (Use when the conversation is relaxed and informal)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "toss" (throw lightly) + "around" (in different directions or among people)
- •Etymology: "toss" comes from Old English "tossian," meaning to throw lightly; "around" adds the sense of movement or distribution
- •Historical development: The phrase developed to describe both light physical throwing and informal idea sharing
- •Modern usage: Common in everyday speech for casual discussion or gentle throwing of objects; often used in meetings or play
Reflect & Connect
•How do you feel when people toss around ideas in a meeting? Does it help you think better or confuse you?
•Can "toss around" be used in serious situations, or is it only for casual moments? Why?
Fill in the blanks
1.They tossed around many ___ before deciding on the final plan.
2.The children were tossing the ball around, laughing and having ___.
3.When you toss around ideas, you usually do not ___ a final decision immediately.
4.She tossed the papers around her desk because she was ___ to find the right one.
5.Unlike throwing hard, tossing something around means you do it ___ and gently.
6.We spent the afternoon tossing around thoughts about ___ summer vacation.
7.The boat was tossed around by the waves, making the passengers feel ___.