What are the definitions of “fiddle around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Waste time doing silly things, or unsuccessful things.
I FIDDLED AROUND with the phone but couldn't get any signal.
- 2Make small movements with your hands.
He FIDDLED AROUND for something in his pockets.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fiddle around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fiddle around is to waste time doing unimportant or unsuccessful things. It can also mean making small movements with your hands, often when searching for something or trying to fix something.
What are the different verb forms of “fiddle around”?
| Root Verb | fiddle around |
| Third Person Singular Present | fiddles around |
| Present Participle | fiddling around |
| Simple Past | fiddled around |
| Past Participle | fiddled around |
Example
She likes to fiddle around with her hair when she's nervous.
Example
He fiddles around with his keys when he's waiting.
Example
They are fiddling around with the computer, trying to fix it.
Example
Yesterday, I fiddled around with the TV remote, but couldn't get it to work.
Example
She had fiddled around with the radio before finally finding the right station.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fiddle 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
“fiddle 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 fiddling around and get to work.
Example
He spent the whole day fiddling around with his phone.
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
“fiddle 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 fiddling around and get to work.
Example
He spent the whole day fiddling around with his phone.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fiddle around”?
Good things to know
Does “fiddle around” have an informal or formal tone?
Fiddle around is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'waste time' or 'tinker with' may be more appropriate.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fiddle around”?
Synonyms
Antonyms
- focus
- concentrate
- work diligently
- be productive
- be efficient
- be effective
