Definition

1. Verb:
   • To fidget with / to fiddle with: To handle or touch something repeatedly, often in a restless, nervous, or purposeless way.
   • To tamper with / to meddle with: To interfere with or adjust something, especially a mechanical device, often without proper knowledge or permission, potentially causing harm or malfunction.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Đứa trẻ thích máy mó các nút bấm trên điều khiển. (The child likes to fiddle with the buttons on the remote control.)
  • Đừng máy mó vào hệ thống dây điện. (Don't tamper with the electrical wiring.)
  • Cô ấy cứ máy mó chiếc vòng trên tay khi lo lắng. (She kept fidgeting with the bracelet on her wrist when she was nervous.)

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying unnecessary, annoying, or potentially damaging interference.

Variants and Related Words

• Máy móc (adj): Mechanical; operating like a machine, often implying a lack of flexibility or thought.
  • Anh ấy có cách suy nghĩ rất máy móc. (He has a very mechanical way of thinking.)

Synonyms

• Fiddle with: To touch or handle something aimlessly.
• Tamper with: To interfere with something, usually to damage or alter it improperly.
• Tinker with: To attempt to repair or adjust something in an experimental or casual way.

Related Idioms

• Máy mó chân tay: To be fidgety or restless with one's hands and feet.
  • Ngồi yên, đừng máy mó chân tay. (Sit still, don't be fidgety.)