What are the definitions of “fool about”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not be serious.
They were FOOLING ABOUT and wouldn't settle down.
- 2Be unfaithful.
Their marriage broke down because he kept FOOLING ABOUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fool about”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fool about is to not be serious or to act in a playful or silly manner. It often refers to people who are not focusing on a task or behaving in a responsible way.
What are the different verb forms of “fool about”?
| Root Verb | fool about |
| Third Person Singular Present | fools about |
| Present Participle | fooling about |
| Simple Past | fooled about |
| Past Participle | fooled about |
Example
The children were fooling about in the playground.
Example
He always fools about during class and distracts others.
Example
She is fooling about instead of doing her homework.
Example
Yesterday, they fooled about at the park instead of studying.
Example
The students had fooled about all day and didn't finish their project.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fool about”?
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
“fool about” 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
The kids were fooling about in the backyard.
Example
Stop fooling about and get to work.
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
“fool about” 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
The kids were fooling about in the backyard.
Example
Stop fooling about and get to work.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fool about”?
Good things to know
Does “fool about” have an informal or formal tone?
Fool about is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'act irresponsibly' or 'behave inappropriately' can be used.
