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Phrasal verbs "goof around" vs "joke around"

Differences between goof around and joke around

Goof around and joke around are both informal phrasal verbs that mean to act in a playful or silly manner, but goof around often implies a lack of focus or productivity, while joke around implies a more lighthearted and harmless behavior.

Meanings and Definitions: goof around vs joke around

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Goof around

  • 1Fool around, not be serious.

    We spent the weekend GOOFING AROUND.

Joke around

  • 1Be funny, or try to.

    He's always JOKING AROUND in class.

Usage Examples: goof around, joke around in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

goof around

Example

When we have free time, we often goof around in the park.

Example

He always goofs around when he should be studying.

joke around

Example

He always jokes around with his friends.

Example

She jokes around at work to lighten the mood.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Goof around

mess around

To behave in a playful or silly way without any serious purpose.

Example

We spent the afternoon messing around at the park, playing frisbee and having a picnic.

fool around

To engage in playful or silly behavior, often in a way that wastes time or distracts from more important tasks.

Example

I need to finish this report, but I keep fooling around on social media instead.

act up

To behave in a disruptive or unruly way, often for attention or amusement.

Example

The kids were acting up during the assembly, giggling and whispering to each other.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Joke around

kid around

To tease or joke with someone in a friendly and playful way.

Example

My coworkers like to kid around with me about my love of coffee.

banter

To exchange playful remarks or teasing comments in a good-natured way.

Example

The group engaged in friendly banter over dinner, joking and laughing together.

pull someone's leg

To tease or joke with someone in a way that is not meant to be taken seriously.

Example

Don't worry, I was just pulling your leg when I said the meeting was cancelled.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “goof”

Differences in goof around vs joke around: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: goof around or joke around?

Both goof around and joke around are commonly used in casual conversations and among friends. However, joke around is slightly more common in everyday speech.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of goof around and joke around

Neither goof around nor joke around are formal expressions. They are best used in informal settings and with people you know well. In more formal situations, it's better to use alternative expressions.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of goof around and joke around

The tone of goof around and joke around can vary depending on the context. Goof around can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of seriousness or responsibility. On the other hand, joke around usually has a positive and friendly tone, implying a sense of humor and playfulness.

goof around & joke around: Synonyms and Antonyms

Goof around

Synonyms

  • dally
  • loaf
  • lark
  • fool around
  • mess around
  • play around
  • fiddle around
  • muck about
  • horse around
  • clown around

Antonyms

Joke around

Synonyms

  • banter
  • kid
  • tease
  • play
  • fool around
  • make fun
  • amuse oneself

Antonyms

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