What does the phrasal verb “fart around” mean?

What are the definitions of “fart around”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Waste time doing pointless things.

  We were really bored in the lecture so we started FARTING AROUND.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fart around”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fart around is to waste time doing unimportant or pointless things. It is often used when someone is not focused on a task or is procrastinating.

What are the different verb forms of “fart around”?

Root Verb	fart around
Third Person Singular Present	farts around
Present Participle	farting around
Simple Past	farted around
Past Participle	farted around

Example

I always fart around when I should be studying.

Example

He farts around instead of doing his homework.

Example

She is farting around on her phone instead of working.

Example

Yesterday, they farted around all day and didn't get anything done.

Example

We have farted around too much and now we're behind schedule.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fart around”?

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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

“fart 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

Stop farting around and get to work.

Example

She farted around all day and didn't finish her project.

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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

“fart 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

Stop farting around and get to work.

Example

She farted around all day and didn't finish her project.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fart around”?

Fart around with something

To play or experiment with something, often without a clear purpose or goal.

Example

He spent hours farting around with the new software, trying to figure out how it works.

Good things to know

Does “fart around” have an informal or formal tone?

Fart around is an informal phrasal verb and should not be used in formal settings or professional communication. Instead, use more formal alternatives like 'waste time' or 'procrastinate'.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fart around”?

Synonyms

• procrastinate
• dawdle
• loaf
• lounge
• idle
• waste time
• dilly-dally

Antonyms

• focus
• work
• concentrate
• be productive
• get things done
• make progress