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goof off
/ɡuf ɒf/◆phrasal verb
to waste time doing nothing
The students were goofing off instead of studying for the exam.
The students were wasting time instead of studying for the exam.
informal
to waste time doing nothing or engaging in silly behavior
He spent the afternoon goofing off with his friends.
He spent the afternoon wasting time and having fun with his friends.
The boss got angry because the employees were goofing off during work hours.
The boss got angry because the employees were wasting time during work hours.
This phrase is informal and often used to describe someone who is avoiding responsibilities or being playful.
Collocations
goof off withto waste time with someonegoof off duringto waste time during a specific period
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
Use 'goof off' in informal settings, such as talking about friends or coworkers. Avoid using it in formal or professional contexts.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While 'goof off' is a useful phrase, overusing it can make your speech sound lazy or unprofessional. Use it sparingly and appropriately.
Word Origin
The phrase 'goof off' combines the verb 'goof' (meaning to make a mistake or act foolishly) with the preposition 'off,' which in this context suggests a departure from serious activity.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who is avoiding work or responsibilities. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the situation.
Word Breakdown
goof
to make a mistake or act foolishly
rootoff
away from serious activity
prepositionEnglish Dictionary