Pronunciation: [mˈʌnkɪ ɐɹˈa͡ʊnd wɪð] (IPA) 
The phrase "monkey around with" is commonly used to describe someone who is playing or messing around with something. This phrase is spelled phonetically as /ˈmʌŋki əˈraʊnd wɪð/. The word "monkey" is pronounced as /ˈmʌŋki/, while "around" is pronounced as /əˈraʊnd/. The word "with" is pronounced as /wɪð/. The phrase is easy to remember due to the association with the playful and mischievous nature of monkeys.
The phrase "monkey around with" is a colloquial expression that typically means to play, tinker, or meddle with something in a casual or careless manner. This idiomatic phrase is derived from the playful nature of monkeys, known for their mischievous behavior.
In a literal sense, "monkey around with" can refer to physically fooling around or engaging in playful activities. For instance, children may monkey around with toys, games, or each other, engaging in light-hearted roughhousing or playful pursuits.
In a figurative sense, the phrase often implies a sense of experimentation or manipulation without a clear purpose or objective. It can describe a situation where someone is messing around or fiddling with something, such as a gadget, a piece of equipment, or a complicated task, without taking it seriously or truly understanding its implications.
Furthermore, "monkey around with" can also convey a connotation of wasting time or being inattentive towards a task. It suggests a lack of focus or commitment, where someone may be avoiding work or responsibilities by engaging in trivial or unproductive activities.
Overall, the phrase "monkey around with" is used to describe various contexts of playful or casual involvement, often with a sense of aimlessness, irresponsibility, or lack of seriousness.
