Fool around and Fool with

Fool around verb - To engage in attention-getting playful or boisterous behavior.

Fool with and fool around are semantically related In some cases you can use "Fool with" instead a verb "Fool around".

Fool with verb - To handle thoughtlessly, ignorantly, or mischievously.

Fool around and fool with are semantically related in dawdle topic. Sometimes you can use "Fool around" instead a verb "Fool with", if it concerns topics such as toy with, fiddle.