# lark about

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lark-about
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to behave in a silly or mischievous way, often for fun.

For teachers: to act in a frivolous or playful manner, typically involving harmless pranks or jokes; informal and British in register.

## Examples

- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They were larking in the park." but "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.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in informal contexts, often in British English.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'play around' (more general) and note the British informal register; useful for teaching regional variations in verb phrases.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.