toy with
Definition
Verb (transitive) 1. To consider or think about (an idea, plan, or possibility) in a casual, non-committal, or tentative way: To entertain a notion without serious intent or commitment, often for amusement or mental exploration.
Usage
The verb "toy with" is used to describe the act of considering an idea or possibility lightly, without a firm decision or deep commitment. It often implies a sense of playful or speculative thinking. - It is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase (e.g., an idea, a notion, a thought, a plan). - It suggests the consideration is not final or serious.
Examples
- Verb:
- She toyed with the idea of starting her own business for years before finally taking the plunge.
- He often toys with the thought of writing a novel, but he never seems to find the time to start.
- I'm just toying with the possibility of taking a different route home today.
Advanced Usage
- "to toy with the notion of": This is a common collocation emphasizing the speculative nature of the thought.
- We toyed with the notion of selling everything and traveling the world.
Variants and Related Words
- Entertain (verb): To consider or give attention to (an idea or suggestion). While similar, "entertain" can be more neutral, whereas "toy with" more strongly implies a lack of seriousness.
- He entertained the proposal from the committee.
- Dally with (verb, phrasal): To consider or deal with something in a frivolous or casual manner. Very similar in meaning to "toy with."
- She dallied with the concept but never pursued it.
Synonyms
- Consider lightly
- Mull over (can be more serious)
- Flirt with (an idea)
- Play with (the idea)
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Play around with (an idea): To consider or experiment with an idea in an informal way.
- Let's play around with that concept in our next meeting.
Related Idioms
- Kick around (an idea): To discuss or consider an idea informally.
- We kicked around the idea of a company retreat.
Verb
-
take into consideration, have in view
-
He entertained the notion of moving to South America
-
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa