misbehave
word
Definition
To act in a way that is not acceptable, naughty, or against rules, especially for children.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used for children or pets; more formal/neutral than 'act up' or 'be naughty.' Often used in rules, instructions, and school contexts. Can be used jokingly with adults but less common.
Spanish: portarse mal - comportarse malPortuguese (BR): comportar-se mal - portar-se malPortuguese (PT): portar-se mal - comportar-se malChinese (Simplified): 行为不端 - 捣乱Chinese (Traditional): 行為不端 - 搗亂Hindi: गलत व्यवहार करनाArabic: يسيء التصرف
Example Sentences
If you misbehave, you will have to sit in time-out.
basic
The teacher told the boys not to misbehave in class.
basic
Children often misbehave when they are bored.
basic
Don’t misbehave while I’m gone, okay?
natural
My dog tends to misbehave if he’s left alone for too long.
natural
The kids started to misbehave as soon as the babysitter looked away.
natural