Raving About: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
November 15, 2023

"Raving about" means praising something enthusiastically or excessively. It is often used to describe someone's reaction to a product, service, event, person, or anything they find impressive or enjoyable.

In short:

  • It signifies expressing overly enthusiastic admiration for something.

What Does "Raving About" Mean?

The idiom "raving about" means to speak or write about something or someone with great enthusiasm or admiration. It implies that the speaker or writer is very impressed or satisfied with the subject of their praise and wants to share their opinion with others. The idiom can also suggest that the speaker or writer exaggerates or is overly emotional about their credit, primarily if they use hyperbole or repetition.

Where Does "Raving About" Come From?

The idiom "raving about" comes from the verb "rave," initially meant to talk wildly or incoherently but later acquired a positive sense of expressing admiration or delight. It became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in literary and artistic circles, where it was used to describe the reactions of critics and audiences to various works of art, literature, music, and theater.

10 Examples of "Raving About" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • My friend was raving about the new book she read.
  • She's been raving about the new restaurant in town.
  • Everyone is raving about the latest superhero movie.
  • People have been raving about his incredible piano skills.
  • He couldn't stop raving about the fantastic concert he attended.
  • They were raving about the breathtaking sunset at the beach.
  • I've heard people raving about that book for weeks.
  • Our friends were raving about the fantastic vacation they had.
  • She's been raving about the delicious homemade cookies.
  • The fans were raving about the band's electrifying performance.
  • I can't help raving about the stunning artwork in the museum.

Examples of "Raving About" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how the idiom is used in pop culture:

  • In Friends' TV show, Rachel Green tells Monica Geller: "Oh my God! Monica, look at this kitchen! This is unbelievable! You have a terrace! You have a guest room! You have a phoebe! This place is amazing! Why are you guys not raving about this?"
  • In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter tells Ron Weasley: "I've heard of those. They're scarce, aren't they? I bet they're brilliant at Quidditch. Fred and George are always raving about them."

Other Ways to Say "Raving About"

Here are some synonyms for the idiom "raving about":

  • Praising enthusiastically
  • Going on and on about
  • Giving glowing reviews
  • Being ecstatic about
  • Gushing over

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Raving About"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

  • What does "raving about" mean?

"Raving about" means praising something enthusiastically or excessively. It is often used to describe someone's reaction to a product, service, event, person, or anything they find impressive or enjoyable.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "raving about"?

The idiom "raving about" comes from the verb "rave," initially meant to talk wildly or incoherently but later acquired a positive sense of expressing admiration or delight.

  • What is the difference between "raving about" and "ranting about"?

"Raving about" means praising something or someone enthusiastically or excessively, while "ranting about" means complaining or criticizing something or someone angrily or bitterly.

  • Is "raving about" a positive or negative expression?

"Raving about" is usually a positive expression, showing that the speaker or writer is happy or satisfied with something or someone. However, it can also have a negative connotation if it implies that the speaker or writer is irrational, unrealistic, or obsessive about their praise.

  • Can "raving about" be used for both people and things?

Yes, "raving about" can be used to describe one's enthusiasm or admiration for both people and things. For example, you can say, "She's raving about the new restaurant" or "He's raving about his favorite author."

  • Is there a difference between "raving about" and "raving over"?

Both expressions are similar and convey enthusiasm, but "raving about" is more commonly used. "Raving over" can be considered a slightly less common variant.

  • Can "raving about" be used in a formal context?

"Raving about" is generally more informal in nature and is often used in casual conversation and writing. In formal contexts, it's better to use more precise and less colloquial language.

  • Is "raving about" the same as being a fan of something?

While being a fan of something implies a level of admiration, "raving about" suggests a more vocal and expressive form of praise or excitement. You can be a fan without necessarily raving about it.

  • Is "raving about" always genuine, or can it be used sarcastically?

"Raving about" is typically used genuinely to express enthusiasm or praise. However, it can be used sarcastically to indicate insincere or exaggerated admiration in a humorous way.

  • Are there cultural variations in the usage of "raving about"?

The phrase "raving about" is used in English-speaking cultures and is generally understood in a similar way across different regions. However, the specific things people rave about may vary based on cultural preferences and interests.

Final Thoughts About "Raving About"

"Raving about" is a common idiom that means to praise something or someone enthusiastically or excessively. It is often used to describe someone's reaction to a product, service, event, person, or anything they find impressive or enjoyable.

Key points to remember about the phrase:

  • It comes from the verb rave, which has two meanings: to talk wildly or incoherently or to express enthusiastic praise or admiration for something or someone.
  • It suggests that the speaker or writer exaggerates or is overly emotional about their praise, mainly if they use hyperbole or repetition.
  • It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the tone and style of the speaker or writer.
  • It can be used with different prepositions, depending on the preference of the speaker or writer.
  • It can be used with different verb tenses, depending on the time frame of the praise.
  • It has many synonyms, antonyms, and related expressions.
  • It can be used in various types of sentences.

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