about to

[about to] 1. Close to; ready to.

- Used with an infinitive.

We were about to leave when the snow began.

I haven't gone yet, but I'm about to.

Compare: GOING TO, ON THE POINT OF.

2. {informal} Having a wish or plan to.

- Used with an infinitive in negative sentences.

Freddy wasn't about to give me any of his ice-cream cone.

"Will she come with us?" asked Bill. "She's not about to," answered Mary.