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Vocabulary : Phrasal Verbs : T : toy with

toy with

Meaning: to think about doing something, but not very seriously

Synonym: flirt with

For example:

  • toy with sth Are you serious about quitting your job, or are you just toying with the idea?

  • toy with sth We're toying with the idea of getting a new car next year.

Note: Very often used with "the idea of", as in "They're toying with the idea of moving house."

Quick Quiz:

If Jay and Al are toying with the idea of taking early retirement and driving around the country, they'll probably
  1. start getting what they need
  2. just talk about it
  3. leave fairly soon

Grammar explanation: separable and non-separable phrasal verbs

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