The phrase "kick around" is often used to describe the act of discussing or brainstorming ideas in a casual or informal manner. The spelling of this phrase reflects the pronunciation, with "kick" being pronounced with the short vowel sound /ɪ/ and "around" with the long vowel sound /aʊ/. In IPA phonetic transcription, the phrase can be written as /kɪk əˈraʊnd/. Overall, the spelling and pronunciation of "kick around" are straightforward and easy to remember.
The phrasal verb "kick around" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Primarily, it implies the act of discussing or considering an idea, plan, or issue informally and casually. When individuals "kick around" something, they engage in a non-committal conversation or brainstorming session to explore different options, perspectives, or solutions. This phrase often suggests that the topic being discussed is not taken too seriously, and is approached with a lighthearted or casual attitude. It can be used in various settings, such as at work, in social gatherings, or during problem-solving sessions.
Furthermore, "kick around" can also mean to wander or move aimlessly without a particular purpose or direction. For instance, if someone is seen "kicking around" a park, it implies that they are leisurely exploring the surroundings without any specific destination or activity in mind.
Lastly, the phrase "kick around" can be used to describe the act of mistreating or bullying someone physically or emotionally. This usage is more colloquial and typically refers to subjecting someone to abuse or derogatory behavior.
Overall, "kick around" has several meanings, including discussing informally, aimless wandering, as well as mistreating or bullying, depending on the context.
The phrase "kick around" is derived from the literal action of kicking a ball around aimlessly or casually. It originates from the early 20th century in sports-related contexts, particularly soccer or football. The expression eventually extended its meaning to describe discussing, considering, or pondering something informally or casually, similar to kicking an idea around or examining it from various angles. Over time, it has become a colloquial term used to describe exploring ideas, options, or possibilities without a definitive plan.