About To – Meaning and Examples

Have you ever been just seconds away from leaving the house when the phone rings? Or watched a pot of water start bubbling the moment you turned your back? In English, you’d say you were about to leave—or the water was about to boil! This useful phrase describes something that is going to happen immediately or very soon.

What Does “About To” Mean?

“About to” means that something is going to happen in the next few moments—it’s on the verge of happening. Think of it like standing at the edge of a diving board: you haven’t jumped yet, but you’re ready to. The phrase isn’t about distance or location; it’s about timing—specifically, the immediate future.

When to Use It

Use this phrase in casual or neutral conversations when describing actions that are literally seconds or minutes away. It’s common in daily life, movies, news, or urgent updates (“The train is about to leave!”). This phrase is simple, universal, and works in both spoken and written English—but always refers to the very near future.

Example Sentences

I was about to call you when you texted!
Be quiet—the movie is about to start.
She’s about to graduate after five years of hard work.
Watch out! That glass is about to fall!

Mini Dialogue

Alex: “Did you send the email?”

Jamie: “I’m about to! Just proofreading it one last time.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t use “about to” for events that are hours, days, or weeks away. It only applies to actions that are *imminent*—not just “soon” in a general sense.

❌ Don’t say: “I’m about to go on vacation next month.” (Too far in the future!)
✅ Do say: “I’m about to leave for the airport.” (Happening right now!)

Practice Tip

Next time you’re doing something in the next 30 seconds—like sending a message or walking out the door—say: “I’m about to…” It’s a natural way to show something is happening right now in English.

Final Note

Now you can use “about to” to describe the immediate future with perfect timing! It’s a small phrase that packs a big sense of urgency and readiness. Keep using it—and remember, in English, “about to” means it’s almost happening… right now!

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