toy with
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
play around with an idea or someone's feelings without being serious
Literal meaning: to play with something as if it were a toy
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
to consider an idea or possibility without deciding seriously
"We're toying with the idea of moving abroad for a year."
"I have toyed with the idea of writing a children's book."
— Madonna, interview remarks
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
to treat someone's feelings carelessly or manipulatively
"He was accused of toying with her emotions."
Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral
to move or handle something absent-mindedly with your fingers
"She sat quietly, toying with her necklace."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Common with ideas, possibilities, and feelings. Can have a negative tone when talking about people or emotions.
Commonly used with
idea notion possibility feelings plan knife and fork
Forms
Base
toy with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
toys with
he/she/it
Past simple
toyed with
yesterday
Past participle
toyed with
have + pp
-ing form
toying with
continuous
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