1 C1 idiomatic slang
To waste time behaving in an unproductive or silly manner.
"We can't keep arseing around — the deadline is tomorrow morning."
inseparable
arse around
C1 slang inseparable intransitive
To waste time, behave foolishly, or deal with something in an unhelpfully indirect or incompetent way.
In plain English
Waste time being silly, or handle something badly and inefficiently.
What does "arse around" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
'Arse' is a rude word for buttocks; 'around' suggests aimless movement in no particular direction.
Actually means
Waste time being silly, or handle something badly and inefficiently.
Usage tip
Vulgar British and Australian slang. Nearly synonymous with 'arse about'. Can also imply making a mess of something through incompetence. Avoid in formal or professional settings. American equivalent: 'ass around'.
Words that pair with "arse around"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
all day work time task job
How to conjugate "arse around"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
arse around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
arses around
he/she/it
Past simple
arsed around
yesterday
Past participle
arsed around
have + pp
-ing form
arsing around
continuous
Hear "arse around" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "arse around" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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