fart about
B2 slang intransitive
In simple words
To waste time and not do anything useful. A ruder way of saying 'mess about.'
Literal meaning: 'Fart' (to expel intestinal gas) combined with 'about' — implying the activity is as useful and dignified as passing gas.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
slang
To waste time in an aimless or silly manner instead of doing what is needed.
"Stop farting about and get your revision done — the exam is on Monday!"
2 B2
idiomatic
slang
To treat something or someone without the necessary seriousness.
"The committee was just farting about with the proposal instead of making a real decision."
Usage notes
British English. Considered rude due to the word 'fart.' Used to express strong frustration or impatience. Not appropriate in formal settings. Equivalent to 'fart around.'
Commonly used with
stop time all day instead of working enough
Forms
Base
fart about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
farts about
he/she/it
Past simple
farted about
yesterday
Past participle
farted about
have + pp
-ing form
farting about
continuous
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Synonyms
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