Definition of bang about

The expression "bang about" in contemporary British English means to talk or write excessively and often carelessly about something. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the mid-19th century when it was used in the nautical context to describe the loud noise made by loose objects rolling around in a ship's hold or cargo area during the voyage. The term "bang about" was used to indicate that these items were not properly secured and were causing disturbance and damage to other goods. Over time, the nautical meaning of "bang about" evolved to denote the misuse of space or resources, as exhibited by objects that were not correctly stored in a confined and moving environment. Around the turn of the 20th century, the phrase began appearing in other contexts as a direct metaphor, with people and ideas being compared to objects rattling around on a ship. In the 1920s and 1930s, "bang about" came to be associated with boisterous or overly exuberant behavior, particularly in the context of public speaking or writing. It was used to describe speakers who made loud, explosive statements with little regard for factual accuracy or respect for others' opinions. Today, "bang about" is commonly used in British English to criticize people who speak or write carelessly or excessively about a particular subject, usually in the context of a misleading or inaccurate presentation. The phrase highlights the negative consequences of misuse of language or resources in a confined and rapidly moving environment, whether that environment is a ship's hold, a lecture hall, or the broader space of modern communication.