informal10K+

UK//dəʊnt fuːl əˈraʊnd//US//doʊnt fuːl əˈraʊnd//

Meaning of Don't fool around

A phrase urging someone to be serious and stop being playful.

In simple words: Don't waste time or play instead of being serious.

Don't fool around in a sentence

  • You need to finish your homework, so don't fool around anymore!
  • If you keep fooling around, you won't get anything done today.
  • I told her not to fool around when we were trying to prepare for the presentation.
  • Don't fool around with the project; it’s too important.

How to use Don't fool around

This phrase is often used among friends or in casual settings, where seriousness is needed. Avoid using it in formal situations or with people who prefer a serious tone.

Grammar pattern

standalone warning

Memory hint

Imagine someone playing while they should be studying, and a friend saying, 'Don't fool around!'

Related words

Collocations with Don't fool around

Synonyms for Don't fool around

  • stop joking
  • be serious
  • get serious
  • pay attention
  • focus

Common mistakes with Don't fool around

  • Used too seriously in formal contexts.
  • Confused with 'fooling around' meaning to play or have fun instead of being serious.
  • Misheard as 'don't fall around'.

Don't fool around appears in

Don't fool around in other languages

More chunks like Don't fool around

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Frequently asked questions about Don't fool around

What does Don't fool around mean?

Don't waste time or play instead of being serious.

What is the definition of Don't fool around?

A phrase urging someone to be serious and stop being playful.

How do you use Don't fool around in a sentence?

You need to finish your homework, so don't fool around anymore!

Can you give another example of Don't fool around?

If you keep fooling around, you won't get anything done today.

What are synonyms for Don't fool around?

Common alternatives include stop joking, be serious, get serious, pay attention, focus.

What words go with Don't fool around?

It commonly pairs with fool around with, don't fool around, fool around instead, fool around at work.

What are common mistakes when using Don't fool around?

Used too seriously in formal contexts. Confused with 'fooling around' meaning to play or have fun instead of being serious. Misheard as 'don't fall around'.

How do you pronounce Don't fool around?

US: //doʊnt fuːl əˈraʊnd//, UK: //dəʊnt fuːl əˈraʊnd//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Don't fool around formal or informal?

"Don't fool around" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Don't fool around?

This phrase is often used among friends or in casual settings, where seriousness is needed. Avoid using it in formal situations or with people who prefer a serious tone.