Faff around

usgb
verb

To waste time doing unimportant things instead of dealing with what needs to be done.

Stop faffing around and finish your homework!
Visual representation of "faff around" - To waste time doing unimportant things instead of dealing with what needs to be done

Often appears as...

  • faffing around doing nothing
  • faff around with paperwork

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "faff around"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Time Wasting

Use 'faff around' when someone is wasting time instead of doing important tasks.

Illustration for Time Wasting
He spent hours faffing around before starting his assignment.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Context

'Faff around' is casual and best suited for informal conversations.

Illustration for Colloquial Context
During the break, they faff around without worrying about work.
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Negative Connotation

The phrase has a slight negative tone, suggesting unproductiveness.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The manager hates when employees faff around on the job.
Visual representation of the word "Faff around"

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