Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Mucking about (Phrasal Verb)

Quick summary: An informal phrasal verb meaning to waste time or behave silly or irresponsibly.

What does it mean?

To muck about means to waste time, behave in a silly or irresponsible way, or to play around instead of doing what you are supposed to be doing.

Is it positive or negative?

It is negative when it involves wasting time, but can be neutral if it just means having fun.

When do you use it?

Use it in everyday conversation when the situation matches the meaning.

Examples

Example 1: Stop mucking about and finish your homework; it is nearly bedtime!

Example 2: We spent the whole afternoon just mucking about in the park.

Question for you

Have you heard or used 'mucking about' in real conversation?

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