The phrase "are up and about" is often used to describe someone who is active and moving around after an illness or injury. The pronunciation of "up and about" is /ʌp ənd əbaʊt/, with the stress on the first syllable of each word. The "a" in "about" is pronounced with a schwa sound, similar to the "e" in "the". The word "up" is pronounced with a short "u" sound, like the word "cup". When spelled out phonetically, the phrase may appear as "uhp and uh-bowt".
The phrase "are up and about" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who is out of bed and actively engaged in their daily activities or routine. It portrays a sense of physical or mental vitality and suggests that the person has recovered from an illness, injury, or any situation that confined them to bed rest or inactivity.
The word "up" in this context denotes the act of rising or standing, indicating that the individual has gotten out of bed or overcome a period of immobility. It implies that they have regained strength, energy, or health, and are now functioning actively. The addition of the word "about" emphasizes the notion of being busy or occupied with various tasks, suggesting a return to their usual routine or active state.
The phrase may also be used more figuratively to describe a person who was previously inactive, uninvolved, or disengaged, but has now become vigorous, alert, or attentive. It conveys a sense of being back on one's feet and ready to face challenges or be actively involved in activities, both physically and mentally.
Overall, "are up and about" characterizes a state of being physically restored, mentally alert, or actively engaged in tasks or daily life affairs after a period of illness, inactivity, or disengagement. It suggests a sense of renewal, recovery, and readiness to resume or initiate activities.