frolic
C1Literary, formal (as a noun). Neutral to informal (as a verb).
Definition
Meaning
To play and move about in a cheerful, lively, and energetic way.
A playful, lively action or event; a period of merrymaking or playful activity. Can describe the playful behaviour of animals or children, or a lighthearted, carefree occasion.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily denotes playful, energetic movement. Implies a sense of carefree joy and lightheartedness. The verb is often intransitive.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is broadly similar. The noun form ('a frolic') might be slightly more common in British literary contexts.
Connotations
Both carry positive, whimsical connotations. Can sound slightly old-fashioned or poetic in both varieties.
Frequency
Low frequency in both; considered a somewhat literary or deliberate choice.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] frolics (in/on [place])[Subject] frolics with [companion]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To be on a frolic of one's own (to be engaged in a separate, often irresponsible, activity).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Possibly metaphorical: 'The company's frolic into speculative markets ended badly.'
Academic
Rare. Used in literary or historical analysis of texts depicting play.
Everyday
Used to describe pets, children, or a carefree mood: 'The kids are frolicking in the garden.'
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The lambs frolicked in the spring meadow, oblivious to the rain.
American English
- After the final exam, the students ran to frolic on the beach.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The puppies frolic in the grass every morning.
- Their holiday was one long frolic of swimming, dancing, and laughter.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a FROG doing a somersault (froLIC) – it's a playful, bouncy movement.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A PLAYFUL ACTIVITY; HAPPINESS IS LIGHT, BOUNCY MOVEMENT.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'пролик' (non-existent) or 'фролик' (a name). The closest conceptual equivalent is 'резвиться', but 'frolic' is more specific and literary.
Common Mistakes
- Using it as a common transitive verb (*He frolicked the ball).
- Using it to describe aggressive play.
- Spelling: 'frollic' (double 'l' is incorrect).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the BEST context for the word 'frolic'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It occupies a middle ground. As a verb in description, it's neutral. As a noun ('a frolic'), it can sound literary or slightly old-fashioned.
Yes, but often with a slightly humorous, whimsical, or nostalgic tone, implying childlike or carefree behaviour.
'Frolic' is more specific and vivid, implying energetic, joyful, often physical movement. 'Play' is a much broader, more general term.
Rarely. It is almost exclusively positive. The idiom 'on a frolic of one's own' can imply irresponsibility.