lark about
phr. v..phr. v.. to behave in a silly or mischievous way, often for fun.
phr. v.. to act in a frivolous or playful manner, typically involving harmless pranks or jokes; informal and British in register.
The kids were larking about in the park.
During the party, the guests were larking about and having a great time.
The sailors, having just completed their duties, were larking about on the deck, much to the captain's amusement.
- Particles
- about
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- lark + about + object
Typically used in informal contexts, often in British English.
contrast with 'play around' (more general) and note the British informal register; useful for teaching regional variations in verb phrases.
They were larking in the park.They were larking about in the park.The particle 'about' is necessary to convey the playful, mischievous meaning; omitting it changes the phrase to an incorrect form.