dabble
word
Definition
To try an activity or subject only in a casual or superficial way, without becoming deeply involved or serious.
Usage & Nuances
"Dabble" is informal and often followed by "in" (e.g., "dabble in painting"). It suggests lack of commitment or only occasional activity. It is positive or neutral, not insulting, but you do not say it about very serious pursuits.
Spanish: probar - experimentar - incursionarPortuguese (BR): experimentar - se aventurar - mexer (superficialmente)Portuguese (PT): experimentar - aventurar-se - mexer (superficialmente)Chinese (Simplified): 涉猎 - 涉足 - 玩玩Chinese (Traditional): 涉獵 - 涉足 - 玩玩Hindi: थोड़ा-बहुत करना - शौक से करनाArabic: يُجَرِّب - ينغمس (قليلاً) - يمارس بشكل سطحي
Example Sentences
I like to dabble in painting on weekends.
basic
She started to dabble in photography last year.
basic
Many people dabble in gardening as a hobby.
basic
He just dabbles in coding—he's not a professional developer.
natural
I’ve been dabbling in yoga, but I’m still a beginner.
natural
Whenever I get interested in a new hobby, I just dabble for a while before moving on.
natural