fool with

verb

fooled with; fooling with; fools with

informal

1

: to handle or play with (something) in a careless way

Don't fool with that gun.

2

: to deal with or be involved with (something that causes or that could cause trouble)

The company doesn't want to fool with small distributors.

3

: to deal with (someone) in a way that may cause anger or violence

I wouldn't want to fool with that guy.