larrikinism
Definition
Noun: The behaviour or practices characteristic of a larrikin, typically involving rowdy, mischievous, or disorderly conduct, especially in public spaces.
Usage Examples
- (The council aimed to reduce rowdy and disruptive behaviour on the streets.)
- (His mischievous and disorderly conduct led to conflicts with officials.)
- (The event was spoiled by noisy and disruptive actions.)
Advanced Usage
"to descend into larrikinism": to become characterized by rowdy or unruly behaviour.
- The peaceful protest descended into larrikinism after a few agitators joined the crowd. (The protest turned into disorderly conduct.)
"larrikinism as cultural expression": In some contexts, especially Australian, larrikinism can refer to a rebellious or nonconformist attitude that is seen as part of local identity.
- Some historians view larrikinism as a form of resistance against strict social norms. (They see it as a rebellious cultural trait.)
Variants and Related Words
Larrikin (noun): a person who behaves in a rowdy, mischievous, or disorderly way, often in a playful or defiant manner.
- The old larrikin was known for his pranks and loud laughter. (A mischievous person who enjoys causing light trouble.)
Larrikinish (adj): having the qualities of a larrikin; roguish or unruly.
- His larrikinish grin suggested he was up to no good. (His mischievous smile indicated possible trouble.)
Synonyms
- Rowdiness: noisy, disorderly behaviour.
- Mischief: playful troublemaking.
- Hooliganism: violent or destructive behaviour, often by a group.
- Rudeness: impolite or disruptive conduct.
Related Idioms
"to raise Cain": to cause a noisy disturbance or trouble.
- The teenagers were raising Cain in the park, just like acts of larrikinism. (They were being rowdy and disruptive.)
"to kick up a fuss": to complain or cause a disturbance.
- His larrikinism involved kicking up a fuss at every public meeting. (He created a disturbance by complaining loudly.)