Neutral:
* Kill time: This is a common and neutral way to say you're doing something to pass the time.
* Passing the time: Similar to "kill time," this phrase implies a lack of specific goals.
* Idling: Means you're doing nothing, but it can be a neutral or even positive thing, like "I'm just idling until the meeting starts."
* Goofing off: A more informal way to say you're not working or being productive.
Negative:
* Blowing time: This implies you're wasting time carelessly.
* Burning daylight: Suggests you're wasting a valuable resource (time).
* Procrastinating: Putting off something important, often by doing something else.
* Slacking off: Not working hard enough or not putting in the necessary effort.
* Hanging around: This can be neutral, but it often implies you're not doing anything useful.
* Shooting the breeze: This refers to casual conversation, but can be seen as a waste of time in certain contexts.
* Milling about: Similar to hanging around, but implies a lack of purpose.
* Twiddling your thumbs: A classic way to describe doing nothing productive.
* Spinning your wheels: Implies you're making little progress.
* Wasting precious moments: A more dramatic way to say you're wasting time.
Humorous/Playful:
* Chasing butterflies: A whimsical way to describe doing something frivolous.
* Daydreaming: Often seen as a pleasant way to waste time.
* Goofing around: Can be a fun way to waste time, but can also be seen as irresponsible.
* Playing hooky: A playful way to say you're skipping work or school.
The best slang term to use will depend on the context and the intended meaning.