goofing off

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Certainly! Let's break down the phrase "goofing off" in a way that’s easy to understand.

Definition:

Goofing off is a phrase used to describe when someone is not doing what they are supposed to do, especially work or studying. Instead, they are wasting time or playing around. It’s like taking a break, but too much of it can mean you are not being responsible.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: It is a verb phrase, often used in informal contexts.
• You can use it when talking about someone who is not focusing on their tasks.

Example:

• "Instead of studying for the test, he was goofing off and playing video games."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex sentences, you might use "goofing off" to describe a situation or group behavior: - "The students were goofing off during the lecture, which annoyed the teacher."

Word Variants:

• Goof (verb): To mess up or make a mistake; it can also mean to spend time in a silly way.
• Goofball (noun): A silly or foolish person, often someone who goofs off a lot.

Different Meaning:

While "goofing off" primarily means avoiding work, "goof" can also refer to making a mistake. For example: - "I really goofed on that math problem."

Synonyms:

Some synonyms for "goofing off" include: - Fooling around - Messing around - Slacking off - Lazing about

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Cutting loose": This means to relax and have fun, similar to goofing off but often implies a more carefree attitude.
• "Taking it easy": This means to relax and not put in much effort, which can relate to goofing off.

Summary:

So, when you hear "goofing off," think of it as not being serious about your responsibilities. It’s a fun way to describe someone who is playing around instead of working!

Academic

Noun

1. the evasion of work or duty

Synonyms

• shirking
• slacking
• soldiering
• goldbricking