schoolboyish
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Characteristic of or befitting a schoolboy: Describes behavior, appearance, or actions that are typical of a young boy, often implying immaturity, high spirits, or a lack of sophistication.
Usage
The adjective "schoolboyish" is used to describe qualities, manners, or actions that are reminiscent of a boy at school. It often carries connotations of youthful exuberance, naivety, or playful mischief. It can be used in both neutral and slightly critical contexts, suggesting a charming lack of adult seriousness or, conversely, a lack of maturity.
Examples
- His schoolboyish enthusiasm for the project was contagious.
- She found his schoolboyish jokes endearing at first, but they eventually grew tiresome.
- The manager's schoolboyish error cost the team the match.
Advanced Usage
- "schoolboyish charm": A charming quality that stems from youthful naivety or eagerness.
- The politician's schoolboyish charm helped him connect with younger voters.
- "schoolboyish behavior": Conduct that is immature or overly playful for the situation.
- His schoolboyish behavior during the serious meeting was highly unprofessional.
Variants and Related Words
- Boyish (adj): Resembling or characteristic of a boy. (Note: "Boyish" is a more general term, while "schoolboyish" often specifically implies the context or manners associated with being at school.)
- Juvenile (adj): Characteristic of or suitable for young people; often implies immaturity.
- Adolescent (adj): Relating to or characteristic of adolescence; can imply awkwardness or emotional immaturity.
Synonyms
- Immature
- Childlike
- Youthful
- Puerile (often more derogatory)
Antonyms
- Mature
- Sophisticated
- Adult
- Grown-up
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "Like a schoolboy": Behaving with the excitement or naivety of a young boy.
- He grinned like a schoolboy when he received the gift.
- "Schoolboy error": A very basic or foolish mistake, of the kind a schoolboy might make.
- Forgetting to save the document was a real schoolboy error.
Adjective
- befitting or characteristic of a young boy
- a boyish grin
- schoolboyish pranks