cheeky
word
Definition
Behaving in a bold or disrespectful way, often in a playful or funny manner rather than to cause harm.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly informal, often carries a sense of affection or humor in British English. Used for children, friends, or someone being slightly disrespectful but not offensive. Common in 'cheeky grin', 'cheeky remark', or 'cheeky request'. Can sound worse in American English; context and tone are important.
Spanish: atrevido - descaradoPortuguese (BR): atrevido - abusadoPortuguese (PT): atrevido - descaradoChinese (Simplified): 调皮 - 放肆Chinese (Traditional): 調皮 - 放肆Hindi: ढीठ - शरारतीArabic: وقح - جريءBengali: দুষ্টুমি - বেয়াদবি (মজার ভাবে)Russian: наглый (шуточно) - дерзкий (разговорное, без злобы)Japanese: 生意気（な） - ちゃっかり（な）Vietnamese: táo tợn (một cách vui nhộn) - láu cáKorean: 건방진 - 장난기 많은 (귀엽게)Turkish: yaramaz - şımarık (şakacı anlamda)Urdu: شوخ - شرارتی (مزاحیہ انداز میں)Indonesian: nakal - usil (dengan cara lucu)
Example Sentences
Don't be so cheeky with your teacher.
basic
That was a cheeky question!
basic
The little boy gave a cheeky smile to his mother.
basic
He made a cheeky comment and everyone laughed.
natural
She's a bit cheeky, but that's what makes her fun.
natural
Let's grab a cheeky snack before dinner.
natural