demeanor
Definition
Noun: The outward behavior, bearing, manner, or conduct of a person, especially as it is perceived by and influences others. It encompasses one's appearance, attitude, and the way one interacts socially.
Usage
"Demeanor" is used to describe the overall impression given by a person's behavior and manner. It is often modified by adjectives to specify its quality (e.g., calm, professional, friendly). It is a formal term commonly used in written and spoken English to assess character or attitude in social, professional, or observational contexts.
Examples
- The doctor's calm and reassuring demeanor put the anxious patient at ease.
- Despite the stressful situation, she maintained a professional demeanor throughout the meeting.
- His cheerful demeanor makes him very popular among his colleagues.
- The suspect's nervous demeanor aroused the officer's suspicion.
Advanced Usage
- "To have a [adjective] demeanor": This is the most common construction for describing the specific quality of someone's manner.
- The judge is known for having a stern and impartial demeanor.
- "One's demeanor changes/shifts": Used to describe a noticeable alteration in someone's outward manner.
- His demeanor shifted from friendly to cold when the topic of money was raised.
Variants and Related Words
- Demeanour: The British English spelling of "demeanor". The meaning is identical.
- Demean (verb): To cause a severe loss of dignity and respect for (someone or oneself). CRITICAL NOTE: This is a separate word with a different, negative meaning (e.g., ). It is not the verb form of "demeanor".
Synonyms
- Bearing: One's posture and way of carrying oneself.
- Manner: The way in which a person behaves or conducts themselves.
- Comportment: Formal term for behavior or bearing.
- Mien: A person's look or manner, especially one of a particular kind indicating their character or mood (literary).
Antonyms
- There is no direct antonym for the noun "demeanor." Antonyms would depend on the adjective describing it (e.g., a demeanor vs. an one).
Idioms and Phrases
- To be a credit to one's [family/school/profession], both in demeanor and deed: A formal phrase praising someone's overall conduct and actions.
- The graduate was a credit to the university, both in demeanor and deed.
Noun
-
(behavioral attributes) the way a person behaves toward other people
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ gần giống
Từ chứa "demeanor"
Từ có nhắc đến "demeanor"
