fool with

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Meaning · English

To involve oneself with in a dangerous and reckless manner.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

If you fool with the Mafia, expect to get hurt.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “fool with” mean?

To involve oneself with in a dangerous and reckless manner.

Is “fool with” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.