"what are you going to do about it?" vs "what are you going to do with it?"

Question

"what are you going to do about it?" vs "what are you going to do with it?"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but there are subtle differences in meaning. 'What are you going to do with it?' is more focused on the action or purpose related to the object, while 'What are you going to do about it?' implies a problem or situation that needs to be addressed.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to ask about the plan or action to address a problem, situation, or issue.

Examples:

There's a leak in the roof. What are you going to do about it?
The noise from the neighbors is disturbing. What are you going to do about it?

Alternatives:

how will you handle it?
what is your solution for it?
what do you plan to do regarding it?
what steps will you take about it?
what actions will you take in response to it?

This phrase is used to inquire about the intended action or purpose related to a specific object or item.

Examples:

I bought a new book. What are you going to do with it?
What are you going to do with all that money?

Alternatives:

what will you do with it?
how are you planning to use it?
what do you intend to do with it?
what is your plan for it?
what is your purpose for it?

Answer 1

what are you going to do about it?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

what are you going to do with it?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"what are you going to do about it?" vs "what are you going to do with it?"

what are you going to do about it?

what are you going to do with it?

Related Comparisons