ladylike
/'leidilaik/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Characteristic of or appropriate for a well-bred, refined, or polite woman: Describes behavior, manners, or appearance that are considered elegant, proper, and gentle, in a way traditionally associated with women of high social standing.
- Reserved, modest, or delicate: Can describe a demeanor that is not loud, aggressive, or coarse.
Examples of Usage
- Adjective:
- Her ladylike demeanor impressed everyone at the formal dinner.
- He was surprised by her ladylike composure even under pressure.
- She always speaks in a soft, ladylike tone.
Advanced Usage
- Used to describe objects or actions metaphorically: Sometimes applied to things to suggest refinement or delicacy.
- The garden party had a quaint, almost ladylike charm.
- Can be used with slight irony or critique: May imply excessive primness or conformity to outdated norms.
- Her ladylike refusal to engage in the debate was seen by some as a lack of conviction.
Variants and Related Words
- Lady (n): A woman of good social position or refinement.
- Ladylikeness (n): The quality of being ladylike.
- Her ladylikeness was noted by all the guests.
Synonyms
- Refined
- Genteel
- Polite
- Decorous
- Proper
Antonyms
- Unladylike
- Coarse
- Vulgar
- Boorish
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To act/behave in a ladylike manner: To conduct oneself with propriety and grace.
- Young girls were once taught to always behave in a ladylike manner.
Adjective
- befitting a woman of good breeding
- ladylike manners