What is another word for mess about?
Pronunciation: [mˈɛs ɐbˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
Mess about is a colloquial term which means to waste time, dilly-dally, or simply put, to goof around. If you're trying to express this idea using a different term, then you have several options to choose from. For instance, you may use the phrase "play around" to suggest someone is not acting seriously or responsibly. Alternatively, the term "fiddle with" can denote the same idea - someone is distracting themselves or fidgeting. Other synonyms that come to mind are "monkey around," "waste time," or "idle away." When seeking more elegant options, you might use the phrases "procrastinate," "dawdle," or "lackadaisical." Regardless of the synonym you select, bear in mind that this term tends to denote careless or nonchalant actions.
