Differences between explain away and fiddle away
Explain away means to justify or make excuses for something that may be seen as negative or problematic, while fiddle away means to waste time or squander an opportunity.
Meanings and Definitions: explain away vs fiddle away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Explain away
- 1To provide an explanation or excuse for something, often in order to minimize its significance or avoid blame.
And when the courageous stands you do take are explained away as the result of parental pressure, there's scant incentive to remain upright.
- 2To provide excuses or justifications for something.
He's been explaining away antisemitism for far too long.
- 3To provide an explanation or excuse for something, often in a way that is not entirely truthful or convincing.
She made up stories to explain away the missing money.
Fiddle away
- 1Waste time.
He FIDDLED AWAY the afternoon.
Usage Examples: explain away, fiddle away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
explain away
Example
He tried to explain away his mistake.
Example
She explains away her tardiness by blaming traffic.
fiddle away
Example
She tends to fiddle away her weekends watching TV.
Example
He fiddles away his free time playing video games.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Explain away
make excuses
To provide reasons or justifications for something that may be seen as negative or problematic.
Example
He tried to make excuses for his lateness, but we could tell he was just procrastinating.
To find logical or reasonable explanations for something that may be seen as negative or problematic.
Example
She tried to rationalize her decision to quit her job, but deep down she knew it was impulsive.
To defend or explain something that may be seen as negative or problematic.
Example
He tried to justify his behavior by saying that he was under a lot of stress.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fiddle away
To fail to take advantage of a chance to do something beneficial or valuable.
Example
She squandered the opportunity to invest in the stock market and now regrets it.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fiddle”
Differences in explain away vs fiddle away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: explain away or fiddle away?
In daily conversation, people use explain away more often than fiddle away. This is because explain away can be used in a variety of situations where someone needs to justify their actions or decisions. Fiddle away is less common and usually used in specific contexts where someone is wasting time or not taking advantage of an opportunity.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of explain away and fiddle away
Explain away and fiddle away are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of explain away and fiddle away
The tone of explain away and fiddle away can differ based on context. Explain away often carries a defensive or apologetic tone when someone is trying to justify their actions, while fiddle away typically has a critical or disappointed tone, especially when referring to wasted time or missed opportunities.
explain away & fiddle away: Synonyms and Antonyms
Explain away
Antonyms
- admit
- acknowledge
- accept
- confess
- concede
- own up
- take responsibility
