Differences between fiddle about and root about
Fiddle about and root about are similar in that they both involve searching or rummaging through something, but fiddle about is more about doing so aimlessly or without a clear purpose, while root about implies a more determined or purposeful search.
Meanings and Definitions: fiddle about vs root about
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Fiddle about
- 1Waste time doing silly things, or doing things unsuccessfully.
We spent the whole afternoon FIDDLING ABOUT with the computer but couldn't get it to work.
Root about
- 1Look in a place to try to find something.
He ROOTED ABOUT in his briefcase, trying to find a pen.
Usage Examples: fiddle about, root about in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fiddle about
Example
She always fiddles about with her phone during meetings.
Example
He fiddles about with his pen when he's nervous.
root about
Example
She always roots about in her purse to find her keys.
Example
He roots about in his backpack for a snack.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fiddle about
tinker with
To make small changes or adjustments to something without a clear goal or purpose.
Example
He spent the afternoon tinkering with his car engine, but it still wouldn't start.
play around
To spend time doing something in a casual or unserious way.
Example
She was playing around with different makeup looks before her big night out.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Root about
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fiddle”
Phrasal Verbs with “root”
Phrasal Verbs with “about”
- root about
- fall about
- bring about
- scout about
- hang about!
Differences in fiddle about vs root about: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fiddle about or root about?
Both fiddle about and root about are relatively informal phrases and not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, root about is slightly more common than fiddle about.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fiddle about and root about
As mentioned, both fiddle about and root about are informal phrases and not suitable for formal contexts. In more formal settings, it's better to use alternative expressions.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fiddle about and root about
The tone of fiddle about is often playful or lighthearted, while root about can carry a more serious or determined tone.
fiddle about & root about: Synonyms and Antonyms
Fiddle about
Antonyms
- focus
- concentrate
- succeed
- work efficiently
- make progress
- be productive
