Complex phrasal verbs using the ABOUT particle
Q1. He messed ___ during the entire lesson
MESS ABOUT means behave foolishly. Lessons are disrupted. Patience is tested.
Q2. She dithered ___ instead of making a decision
DITHER ABOUT means hesitate indecisively. Decisions await. Action is required.
Q3. They poked ___ in the old attic
POKE ABOUT means search casually. Attics hold treasures. Curiosity is rewarded.
Q4. He knocked ___ a quick email before the meeting
KNOCK OFF means produce quickly. Emails are dashed off. Meetings await.
Q5. She cast ___ for suggestions
CAST ABOUT means search desperately. Suggestions are needed. Ideas are sought.