A2verb1K

Behave

UK /["/bɪˈheɪv/","/bɪˈheɪvz/","/bɪˈheɪvd/","/bɪˈheɪvɪŋ/"]/US /["/bɪˈheɪv/","/bɪˈheɪvz/","/bɪˈheɪvd/","/bɪˈheɪvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to do things in a particular way

In simple words: to act in a certain way, usually in a good way

Examples

  • You need to behave properly during the meeting.
  • The teacher asked the students to behave while she was out of the room.
  • It's important to behave well in public places.
  • Children often struggle to behave when they're tired.

Usage notes

Use 'behave' in contexts where actions are guided by rules or expectations, especially with children. It's neutral and appropriate in both casual and formal settings. Avoid using it in extremely informal or slang contexts.

Grammar pattern

behave + adverb/adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'beehive' where bees behave in a structured way.

Collocations

  • impeccably
  • perfectly
  • well
  • according to
  • as if
  • as though
  • impeccably
  • perfectly
  • well
  • according to
  • as if
  • as though

Synonyms

  • act

Antonyms

  • misbehave
  • disobey
  • rebel

Common mistakes

  • Incorrectly using 'behave' as a noun.
  • Using 'behave' without indicating how (e.g., 'behave well').
  • Confusing with 'misbehave' without context.