have been around
have been around
1. To have experience, either in a particular area or in one's life overall. A fixture of the Washington political scene, the respected senator has definitely been around. Look, I've been around, I know that a deal like this is never as good as it sounds.
2. To have been sexually promiscuous. OK, yes, I've been around, but that doesn't mean I'm not looking for a meaningful relationship.
See also: around, been, have
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
have been around
to be experienced in life. (Use with caution since this can also be taken to mean to be promiscuous.) Ask Sally about how the government works. She's been around the state capital for years. They all know a lot about life. They've been around.
See also: around, been, have
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
have been around
INFORMALIf someone has been around, they have had a lot of experience of different people and situations. He knows what to do. He's been around. He's been around a long time and has acquired a number of skills.
See also: around, been, have
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
have been around
have a lot of varied experience of the world, especially a lot of sexual experience. informalSee also: around, been, have
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
have been aˈround
(informal)1 have a wide experience of life: She’s been around a bit so she’ll know how to deal with this type of problem.
2 have had many sexual partners: He’d had a lot of girlfriends before he met Sue. He’d certainly been around a bit.
See also: around, been, have
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- be remembered as (something)
- be remembered as/for something
- be remembered for (something)
- be somebody's life
- be (one's) life
- (there's) no peace/rest for the wicked
- at (one's) doorstep
- at doorstep
- at somebody's expense
- at someone's expense