informal 2K

What's that about

🇬🇧 UK //wɒts ðæt əˈbaʊt// 🇺🇸 US //wɑts ðæt əˈbaʊt//

Meaning of What's that about

A question asking for clarification or explanation regarding something.

In simple words: What does that mean?

What's that about in a sentence

• I heard him mention a meeting – what's that about?
• She seems upset. What's that about?
• He said something about a project. What's that about?
• I saw a weird sign in the park. What's that about?

How to use What's that about

Used in casual conversation to ask for clarification. Avoid in formal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone question

Memory hint

Think of a detective asking, 'What’s that clue about?' to clarify.

Related words

Collocations with What's that about

• ask what's that about
• wonder what's that about
• know what's that about

Synonyms for What's that about

• What does it mean?
• Can you explain?
• What is this about?
• What’s going on?
• What’s happening?

Common mistakes with What's that about

• Using it in a formal meeting.
• Confusing with 'What is that about?' as a more formal version.
• Overusing it when asking for explanations.

Frequently asked questions about What's that about

What does What's that about mean?

What does that mean?

What is the definition of What's that about?

A question asking for clarification or explanation regarding something.

How do you use What's that about in a sentence?

I heard him mention a meeting – what's that about?

Can you give another example of What's that about?

She seems upset. What's that about?

What are synonyms for What's that about?

Common alternatives include What does it mean?, Can you explain?, What is this about?, What’s going on?, What’s happening?.

What words go with What's that about?

It commonly pairs with ask what's that about, wonder what's that about, know what's that about.

What are common mistakes when using What's that about?

Using it in a formal meeting. Confusing with 'What is that about?' as a more formal version. Overusing it when asking for explanations.

How do you pronounce What's that about?

US: //wɑts ðæt əˈbaʊt//, UK: //wɒts ðæt əˈbaʊt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is What's that about formal or informal?

"What's that about" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use What's that about?

Used in casual conversation to ask for clarification. Avoid in formal settings.