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Phrasal verbs "mess around" vs "faff around"

Differences between mess around and faff around

Mess around and faff around are both informal phrasal verbs that mean to waste time or engage in unproductive activities. However, mess around can also mean to behave in a silly or playful way, while faff around is more commonly used to describe someone who is disorganized or indecisive.

Meanings and Definitions: mess around vs faff around

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Mess around

  • 1Not be serious, play with something.

    I was MESSING AROUND on the internet because I couldn't be bothered to do any work.

  • 2Treat someone badly.

    She is always MESSING me AROUND and never does what she promises.

  • 3Have a sexual relationship outside marriage or a permanent relationship.

    She's not faithful- she's been MESSING ABOUT since they got married.

Faff around

  • 1Behave indecisively.

    She told him to stop FAFFING AROUND and make his mind up.

Usage Examples: mess around, faff around in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

mess around

Example

He likes to mess around with his friends after school.

Example

She messes around on her phone instead of studying.

faff around

Example

Stop faffing around and start working on your project.

Example

He always faffs around before getting to work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mess around

fool around

To engage in playful or silly behavior.

Example

The kids love to fool around and make each other laugh during recess.

joke around

To engage in playful or humorous behavior.

Example

We like to joke around with each other to keep the mood light during stressful times at work.

play around

To engage in playful or recreational activities.

Example

On weekends, we like to play around with different recipes and cook together as a family.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Faff around

procrastinate

To delay or postpone tasks or decisions.

Example

I tend to procrastinate when it comes to doing my taxes, but I know I need to get them done soon.

dilly-dally

To waste time or be indecisive.

Example

Stop dilly-dallying and make a decision already!

drag one's feet

To delay or be slow in taking action.

Example

The company has been dragging its feet on implementing new policies, which is frustrating for employees.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “faff”

Phrasal Verbs with “around”

Differences in mess around vs faff around: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: mess around or faff around?

Both mess around and faff around are commonly used in everyday conversation, but mess around is more frequently used in American English, while faff around is more commonly used in British English.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of mess around and faff around

Neither mess around nor faff around are formal phrases, and they are best used in casual conversations with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of mess around and faff around

The tone of mess around and faff around can differ based on context. Mess around often carries a playful or lighthearted tone when related to joking or teasing, while faff around typically has a more negative connotation, suggesting someone is wasting time or being indecisive.

mess around & faff around: Synonyms and Antonyms

Mess around

Synonyms

Antonyms

Faff around

Synonyms

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