Definition of mess around

mess aroundphrasal verb

lộn xộn

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The expression "mess around" originated in the late 19th century in the United States. At that time, the phrase "mess" was commonly used to describe a table or place where people eat, especially a location where food is prepared and served. The word "around" was originally used to convey the meaning of "in the vicinity of" or "nearby" in the language, and it slowly acquired a broader sense of movement and activity. Putting both words together, "mess around" initially carried the meaning of being physically present in or near a place where food was being prepared or served and engaging in activities other than eating. This could include playing games, chatting, or simply lounging around. Over time, the exact definition of "mess around" evolved to encompass any kind of activity that was not productive, frivolous, or distracting, and could be used to describe a variety of frivolous or time-wasting behaviors that do not contribute to any specific goal or result. Nowadays, "mess around" has become a widely used idiomatic expression in American English, though its usage varies according to regional dialects and cultural contexts.

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to behave in a silly and annoying way, especially instead of doing something useful

cư xử một cách ngớ ngẩn và khó chịu, đặc biệt là thay vì làm điều gì đó có ích

Example:
  • Will you stop messing around and get on with some work?

    Bạn có thể ngừng loay hoay và bắt tay vào làm việc được không?

  • I messed around in my first year at college.

    Tôi đã loay hoay trong năm đầu tiên ở trường đại học.

Related words and phrases

to spend time doing something for pleasure in a relaxed way

dành thời gian làm điều gì đó để vui vẻ một cách thoải mái

Example:
  • We spent the day messing around on the river.

    Chúng tôi dành cả ngày để vui đùa trên sông.