1 B2 idiomatic informal
To play in a silly, lighthearted way, often instead of working or behaving seriously.
"The boys spent the whole afternoon larking about in the garden instead of doing their homework."
inseparable
lark about
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To behave in a playful, silly, or carefree way, often when you should be doing something more serious.
In plain English
To play around and be silly instead of doing what you're supposed to do.
What does "lark about" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To joke around and not take a situation seriously.
"Stop larking about — this meeting is important and we need to focus."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
A lark is a type of bird associated with cheerfulness; 'a lark' also means a fun adventure — so 'larking about' evokes carefree, bird-like playfulness.
Actually means
To play around and be silly instead of doing what you're supposed to do.
Usage tip
Chiefly British English. Often used by adults describing children's behaviour, or affectionately about adults. Tone is usually warm or mildly disapproving rather than harshly critical.
Words that pair with "lark about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
children classroom playground friends time afternoon
How to conjugate "lark about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
lark about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
larks about
he/she/it
Past simple
larked about
yesterday
Past participle
larked about
have + pp
-ing form
larking about
continuous
Hear "lark about" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "lark about" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "lark about"
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