Fiddle around

usgb
phrasal verb

To spend time adjusting something or trying different things with no real purpose or direction.

He spent the afternoon fiddling around with his new computer.
Visual representation of "fiddle around" - To spend time adjusting something or trying different things with no real purpose or direction.

Often appears as...

  • fiddle around with
  • fiddle around on

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial, General

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

Casual Context

Used in informal settings among friends or casual conversations, not in formal situations.

Illustration for Casual Context
While waiting for the movie, we fiddled around with some games on my phone.
LampPro Tip 2/3

No Progress

Implies a lack of progress or direction in the activity being done.

Illustration for No Progress
I fiddled around with the code, but couldn't make the program work.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Killing Time

Suggests a way to pass time when one is bored or waiting for something.

Illustration for Killing Time
To kill time at the airport, I just fiddled around on my laptop.
Visual representation of the word "Fiddle around"

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