behave
word
/bɪˈheɪv/
bi-HAYV
/bɪhˈeɪv/
bi-HAYV
Definition
To act in a particular way, especially in terms of whether your actions are polite, calm, or socially acceptable. It is often used when talking about children, but it can describe anyone's conduct.
Usage & Nuances
Very common with adverbs: 'behave well', 'behave badly', 'behave strangely'. For children, 'Behave!' means 'act properly'. You can also say 'behave like...' or 'behave as if...'. Do not confuse it with 'behavior', which is the noun.
Spanish: comportarse - portarse bienPortuguese (BR): comportar-se - se portar bemPortuguese (PT): comportar-se - portar-se bemChinese (Simplified): 表现 - 守规矩Chinese (Traditional): 表現 - 守規矩Hindi: व्यवहार करना - ठीक से पेश आनाArabic: يتصرّف - يحسن التصرّفBengali: আচরণ করা - ব্যবহার করাRussian: вести себяJapanese: ふるまうVietnamese: cư xửKorean: 행동하다Turkish: davranmakUrdu: برتاو کرناIndonesian: berperilaku
Example Sentences
He behaved badly at dinner.
basic
Please behave in class.
basic
The dog behaves well around children.
basic
Why are you behaving like this today?
natural
She always behaves as if she knows everything.
natural
Just behave yourself and we'll have no problems.
natural