What are the definitions of “faff around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Behave indecisively.
She told him to stop FAFFING AROUND and make his mind up.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “faff around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb faff around is to behave indecisively or to waste time doing unimportant things. It is often used to describe someone who is not focused or is procrastinating.
What are the different verb forms of “faff around”?
| Root Verb | faff around |
| Third Person Singular Present | faffs around |
| Present Participle | faffing around |
| Simple Past | faffed around |
| Past Participle | faffed around |
Example
Stop faffing around and start working on your project.
Example
He always faffs around before getting to work.
Example
She is faffing around instead of studying for her exam.
Example
Yesterday, they faffed around all day and didn't accomplish anything.
Example
We have faffed around too much; it's time to get serious.
What kind of phrasal verb is “faff around”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“faff around” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She spent the whole day faffing around.
Example
He faffed around instead of finishing his assignment.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“faff around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She spent the whole day faffing around.
Example
He faffed around instead of finishing his assignment.
Good things to know
Does “faff around” have an informal or formal tone?
Faff around is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not suitable for formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, consider using synonyms such as 'procrastinate' or 'dawdle'.
