Nina Conti

Acting is seductive. It looks so much fun. I did dally with other things. I did pupillage in a law firm, but I didn't like the look of how many files the lawyer I was working with had to take home every night. It looked like a hideous amount of work, when actors were having nice lunches and discussing books.

English Actress

Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar II

It is a law woven into the nature of man, attested by history, by science, by literature and art, and by dally experience, that strength of mind and force of character are the supreme rulers of human affairs.

American Politician

Rory Kinnear

For a while, I dallied with the idea of the law - I didn't really know what it was, but I thought it sounded sensible. And as a child, I wanted to be a goalkeeper. Or a butcher.

English Actor

Implies unnecessary delays or procrastination, often due to lack of urgency or distraction.

Time-wasting

'Dally' suggests inefficiency or being sidetracked, which can be perceived negatively.

Negative Connotation

Can imply a calm, relaxed approach intentionally chosen, not always negative.

Leisurely Pace

Suggests light, playful, non-serious romantic interactions.

Casual Romance

Highlights lack of serious intention in a romantic context.

No Commitment

In some cultures, dallying romantically may be frowned upon.

Potential Disapproval

Indicates a fun and light-hearted way of spending time.

Playful Activity

Often used when someone is enjoying themselves without worrying about anything.

Carefree Mood

 And today, we have what is perhaps our most offensive definition, at least to me, which is the To doodle officially means to dawdle, to dilly dally, to monkey around, to make meaningless marks,