Fidget with Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To move something around with your hands, often because you are nervous, bored, or can’t keep still.
Usage & Nuances
Usually informal. Common with objects like pens, keys, rings, or clothing. Implies restless or nervous movement, not focused attention. Often used to describe involuntary habits. Do not confuse with 'play with' (which is more general and often deliberate).
Spanish: juguetear con - jugar nerviosamente conPortuguese (BR): mexer em - brincar nervosamente comPortuguese (PT): mexer com - brincar nervosamente comChinese (Simplified): 摆弄 - 摸弄Chinese (Traditional): 把玩 - 擺弄Hindi: छेड़ना - बार-बार हाथ लगानाArabic: يعبث بـ - يلعب بعصبية بـBengali: চটপট করা - নাড়াচাড়া করাRussian: ёрзать (с чем-то) - теребитьJapanese: いじる - もてあそぶVietnamese: nghịch - mân mêKorean: 만지작거리다 - 만지작대다Turkish: oynamak (eliyle) - kurcalamakUrdu: بار بار چھونا - چھیڑناIndonesian: mengutak-atik - memainkan (dengan tangan)
Example Sentences
He always fidgets with his keys when he's nervous.
basic
Please don't fidget with your pen during the meeting.
basic
She fidgeted with her hair while waiting.
basic
I can't help but fidget with my ring when I'm bored in class.
natural
Stop fidgeting with the remote—just pick a channel!
natural
You tend to fidget with things when you’re anxious, don’t you?
natural