Definition of fiddle with

fiddle withphrasal verb

chơi đùa với

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The origin of the phrase "fiddle with" can be traced back to the medieval English word "fedelen," which means to play the fiddle. The fiddle, also known as a violin or a fiddler, was a popular musical instrument during that time. As the word "fedelen" evolved over time, it began to take on new meanings. In the 17th century, it was used to describe the act of manipulating or adjusting something, especially in a repetitive or careless manner. This usage can be seen in works by the famous English playwright William Shakespeare, who wrote in "Hamlet" that the lead character was "fiddling with his gauntlet." Over time, the word "fedelen" morphed into "fiddle" and "fiddling," which are still in use today. The phrase "fiddle with" then emerged, meaning to play with or manipulate something, but in a slightly fussy or uncertain way. Its origins in the world of music help to evoke images of someone playing a musical instrument in a frenzied or uncertain manner, which adds to its unique flavor. Today, "fiddle with" is widely used in English and has become a colorful and expressive part of the language.

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to keep touching something or making small changes to something because you are not satisfied with it

tiếp tục chạm vào thứ gì đó hoặc thực hiện những thay đổi nhỏ đối với thứ gì đó vì bạn không hài lòng với nó

Example:
  • I've been fiddling around with this design for ages.

    Tôi đã mày mò thiết kế này trong nhiều năm.

to touch or move the parts of something in order to try to change it or repair it

chạm vào hoặc di chuyển các bộ phận của một cái gì đó để cố gắng thay đổi hoặc sửa chữa nó

Example:
  • Who's been fiddling with the TV again?

    Ai lại loay hoay với cái TV thế?

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