WordGarden.iomischief
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈɪstʃɪf/
US
- /ˈmɪstʃəf/
Meanings
Noun
playful troublemaking or slightly bad behavior
trouble, annoyance, or minor harm caused
the offense of damaging property or causing similar unlawful interference
Beyond the definition
Mischief isn't about serious wrongdoing; it's the kind of playful trouble that often comes with a grin. Think of a mischievous kitten batting at a dangling string, or children plotting a harmless prank. It suggests a lighthearted desire to cause minor disruption, usually without malicious intent. A character known for their mischief is likely full of energy and enjoys bending the rules just enough to be interesting. You might say a certain twinkle in someone's eye hints at impending mischief!
The word often appears in stories about childhood or fantastical creatures – elves are practically defined by their mischievous nature. Shakespeare loved using it, too; in A Midsummer Night's Dream, Puck is a spirit of pure mischief, delighting in playful chaos. So if you sense a bit of lighthearted trouble brewing, that's likely mischief at work.
Mischief describes playful wrongdoing or troublesome behavior, typically without serious consequences. It's more than just being naughty; it implies a spirited and often clever intention to cause minor annoyance or disruption. Think of a group of friends pulling a harmless prank on each other – that's mischief.
The root of the word comes from Old French, originally meaning "misfortune" or "calamity," but over time it has softened into something more lighthearted. While "malice" suggests intent to harm, mischief is usually motivated by fun, curiosity, or a desire for attention. You might describe someone as "full of mischief" if they have a playful and slightly rebellious personality.
Mischief often appears in literature and folklore, particularly when describing fairies, sprites, or trickster figures. These characters aren't necessarily evil, but they enjoy causing chaos and testing boundaries. Consider the mischievous grin of Loki from Norse mythology, or the impish antics of leprechauns.
However, mischief isn't limited to fantastical beings. It can also describe everyday situations: "The dog got into some mischief while we were gone," or "There was a lot of mischief among the students during recess." It's that delightful blend of harmless trouble and playful energy that makes mischief so endearing – even when you're the one cleaning up after it!
Examples
- 1
Classroom trouble
The twins are always getting into mischief when the teacher leaves the room.
- 2
Pet behavior
I knew the dog was up to mischief when he disappeared into the kitchen.
- Phraseup to mischief
planning to do something playful or slightly troublesome
- 3
Harmless prank
She was in a mischievous mood and played a little harmless mischief on her brother.
- 4
Playful expression
There was a look of mischief in his eyes when he said he had a surprise for us.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Playful limits
A little mischief can be funny, but it stops being funny when someone gets hurt.
- 6
Rumors
False rumors can cause a lot of mischief in a small town.
See also
Similar
- naughtiness
- troublemaking
- prankishness
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- obedience
- good behavior
Used with (collocations)
- get into mischief
- make mischief
- full of mischief
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- mischiefnoun