good-conduct
Definition
- Noun (uncountable, often used attributively):
- Behavioral standard: "good-conduct" refers to a standard of behavior that is considered morally upright, lawful, or socially acceptable, often in formal or institutional contexts such as schools, prisons, or workplaces.
Usage Examples
Attributive use (as a modifier):
- He received a good-conduct certificate after completing his sentence. (A document certifying that he behaved well during imprisonment.)
- The student was awarded a good-conduct medal for her exemplary behavior throughout the school year. (A recognition for maintaining high standards of behavior.)
As a noun phrase:
- Prisoners may earn early release for good-conduct. (Behavior that meets institutional rules and expectations.)
- The company emphasizes good-conduct among its employees. (Adherence to ethical and professional standards.)
Advanced Usage
"good-conduct time": a reduction in a prison sentence granted to inmates who follow rules and exhibit good behavior.
- He was released six months early due to good-conduct time. (Time subtracted from a sentence for positive behavior.)
"good-conduct bond": a legal agreement requiring a person to behave well, often used in court cases.
- The judge ordered him to post a good-conduct bond to avoid jail. (A financial guarantee of future good behavior.)
Variants and Related Words
Good conduct (noun phrase): the state of behaving well; often used interchangeably with "good-conduct."
- Her good conduct was noted by the teacher. (Her positive behavior was observed.)
Conduct (noun): the manner in which a person behaves, especially in a formal or public setting.
- His conduct during the meeting was professional. (His behavior was appropriate.)
Synonyms
- Proper behavior: behavior that meets accepted social or institutional norms.
- Exemplary behavior: behavior that serves as a positive model for others.
- Good behavior: a general term for actions that are lawful, respectful, or virtuous.
Related Idioms
On good behavior: acting in a way that is polite, obedient, or socially acceptable, often because one is being observed or evaluated.
- The children were on their best behavior during the visit. (They acted exceptionally well because they were being watched.)
To keep one's nose clean: to avoid trouble or wrongdoing, especially in legal or institutional settings.
- He kept his nose clean after his release to avoid further problems. (He avoided any illegal or disruptive behavior.)