1 B1 idiomatic informal
To spend time behaving in a silly or playful manner, often without a serious purpose.
"Stop goofing around and finish your homework!"
goof around
B1 informal intransitive
To behave in a silly, playful, or aimless way, often while avoiding serious work.
In plain English
To act silly and have fun instead of doing something serious.
What does "goof around" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To waste time doing nothing in particular.
"We spent the afternoon just goofing around at the park."
Usage tip
Primarily American English, though well understood in other varieties. Often used for children playing around or adults avoiding responsibility in a light-hearted way. Generally positive or neutral in tone.
Words that pair with "goof around"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
kids friends classroom work all day instead of
How to conjugate "goof around"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
goof around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
goofs around
he/she/it
Past simple
goofed around
yesterday
Past participle
goofed around
have + pp
-ing form
goofing around
continuous
Hear "goof around" in the wild
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