1 B2 idiomatic informal
To handle or tamper with something in a careless or dangerous way.
"Don't fool with the electric panel — you could hurt yourself."
inseparable
fool with
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To handle, tamper with, or become involved with something or someone in a careless or risky way.
In plain English
Touch or play with something in a way that could cause trouble.
What does "fool with" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To get involved with a person or situation in a way that is risky or inadvisable.
"I wouldn't fool with him if I were you — he has a bad reputation."
inseparable
Usage tip
Often carries a warning tone: 'Don't fool with that!' Can describe both physical tampering with objects and getting romantically or dangerously involved with people.
Words that pair with "fool with"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
gun equipment wiring feelings stranger danger
How to conjugate "fool with"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
fool with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
fools with
he/she/it
Past simple
fooled with
yesterday
Past participle
fooled with
have + pp
-ing form
fooling with
continuous
Hear "fool with" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "fool with" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.