teasingly
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: In a manner that is intended to provoke or make fun of someone in a light-hearted, playful, and not serious way.
Usage
The adverb "teasingly" is used to describe how an action, typically speaking, is performed. It indicates the action is done in a joking, playful, or gently provocative way, without malicious intent. It often modifies verbs like "said," "asked," or "remarked."
Examples
- She smiled and teasingly poked him in the side.
- "I heard you were the last one to finish the race," he remarked teasingly.
- He raised an eyebrow teasingly, waiting for her reaction.
Advanced Usage
- As a sentence adverb (less common): It can sometimes modify a whole sentence to set a playful tone.
- Teasingly, she refused to give him a straight answer.
Variants and Related Words
- Tease (verb): To make fun of or attempt to provoke in a playful way.
- His friends often tease him about his love for classical music.
- Teasing (adjective/noun): The act or quality of being playful and provocative.
- She gave him a teasing smile. (adjective)
- The teasing went on for hours. (noun)
- Teaser (noun): A person who teases, or a difficult question or problem.
Synonyms
- Playfully
- Jokingly
- In jest
- Banteringly
- Tongue-in-cheek
Antonyms
- Seriously
- Earnestly
- Sincerely
Related Idioms/Phrases
- In a teasing manner: A more formal or explicit way to express the same idea as the adverb "teasingly."
- She spoke in a teasing manner.
Adverb
- in a playfully teasing manner
- `You hate things to be out of order, don't you?' she said teasingly