well behaved
Definition
Adjective: - Describing a person, typically a child, who acts in a polite, obedient, and socially acceptable way, conforming to expected standards of conduct.
Usage
The adjective "well behaved" is used to describe a person whose actions are considered proper and correct. It is most commonly applied to children but can be used for adults or animals in formal or humorous contexts. It typically precedes a noun or follows a linking verb like "be," "seem," or "appear."
Examples
- The teacher praised the well-behaved students during the field trip.
- For a puppy, he is remarkably well behaved.
- We appreciate having such a well-behaved audience for the lecture.
Advanced Usage
- "well-behaved" as a compound adjective: Often hyphenated when placed before a noun (attributive position). It may be written without a hyphen when following a verb (predicative position), though hyphenation is common in both cases.
- Attributive: They are well-behaved guests.
- Predicative: Their dog is very well behaved.
Variants and Related Words
- Well-behavedness (n): (Less common) The state or quality of being well-behaved.
- Good (adj): A simpler, more general synonym (e.g., a good child).
- Obedient (adj): Specifically implies following instructions or rules.
- Polite (adj): Specifically emphasizes good manners and courtesy.
Synonyms
- Obedient
- Polite
- Courteous
- Mannerly
- Disciplined
Antonyms
- Ill-behaved
- Naughty
- Disobedient
- Mischievous
- Unruly
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To be on one's best behavior: To make a special effort to behave well.
- The children promised to be on their best behavior at the restaurant.
Adjective
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(usually of children) someone who behaves in a manner that the speaker believes is correct
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a well-behaved child
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