Behavior Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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behavior

[bษชหˆheษชvjษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal behavior

The way in which an animal or person acts in response to a particular situation or stimulus. It is influenced by genetic, environmental, and situational factors.

Synonyms

conduct, demeanor, mannerism.

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Word Description / Examples
behavior

General actions and reactions of a person or animal in different situations.

  • The child's behavior improved after he started going to school.
  • Wildlife experts study the behavior of animals in their natural habitat.
conduct

Formal or official actions often related to ethics or rules.

  • The company's code of conduct outlines expected employee behavior.
  • His conduct during the meeting was highly professional.
mannerism

Distinctive or habitual gestures, speech patterns, or behaviors that are characteristic of an individual.

  • One of his mannerisms is tapping his foot when he is nervous.
  • She has many unique mannerisms that make her easy to recognize.
demeanor

The outward manner or attitude, often how one presents oneself in social situations.

  • Her calm and composed demeanor helped ease the tension.
  • His cheerful demeanor makes him very approachable.

Examples of usage

  • The scientist studied the behavior of monkeys in the wild.
  • Her aggressive behavior towards others made her unpopular in the group.
Context #2 | Noun

criminal behavior

Actions that are illegal or morally wrong, often punishable by law. It can include a range of activities from theft to violence.

Synonyms

delinquency, misconduct, offense.

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Word Description / Examples
behavior

General term referring to the way a person acts in different situations. It can be either positive or negative.

  • His behavior in class always impresses the teacher.
  • Her behavior at the party was inappropriate.
misconduct

Refers to improper or unethical behavior, often in a professional context. It carries a negative implication.

  • The CEO was fired due to allegations of financial misconduct.
  • Misconduct by professionals can lead to severe consequences.
delinquency

Refers specifically to criminal or illegal actions, typically associated with juveniles. It has a negative connotation.

  • The police are concerned about the rise in juvenile delinquency.
  • He was arrested for acts of delinquency committed with his friends.
offense

Specifically refers to a breach of a rule or law, usually resulting in penalty or punishment. It has a negative connotation.

  • Speeding is a common traffic offense.
  • He committed an offense that led to his imprisonment.

Examples of usage

  • The police are trained to identify and prevent criminal behavior.
  • The suspect's behavior in the interrogation room raised suspicions.
Context #3 | Noun

online behavior

The way individuals act on the internet, including social media platforms. It encompasses interactions, posts, and digital communication.

Synonyms

digital conduct, internet etiquette, online etiquette.

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Word Description / Examples
behavior

Generally used to describe actions or reactions of an individual or group in various situations. It can be used in everyday life as well as in professional settings.

  • Her behavior during the meeting was very professional.
  • Children learn a lot through observing the behavior of adults.
digital conduct

Refers explicitly to the way someone behaves in digital environments such as social media, email, or online forums. Used in professional and educational settings.

  • Companies are starting to emphasize the importance of proper digital conduct.
  • Inappropriate digital conduct can lead to serious consequences.
internet etiquette

Related to the informal rules and expectations for behavior while using the internet. Often used when discussing respectful and responsible online interactions.

  • Internet etiquette involves not shouting (typing in all caps) in online forums.
  • Following proper internet etiquette can help prevent misunderstandings.
online etiquette

Similar to 'internet etiquette,' it focuses on appropriate behavior while engaging in online activities like chatting, emailing, or posting on social media.

  • Maintaining good online etiquette is crucial for a positive digital reputation.
  • Teachers often educate students about the importance of online etiquette.

Examples of usage

  • Cyberbullying is a serious issue related to online behavior.
  • Users are encouraged to be mindful of their online behavior and its impact.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Behavior can be shaped by rewards and punishments; this is known as operant conditioning.
  • Certain behaviors can indicate emotional states, like happiness, sadness, or anxiety.
  • Social learning theory suggests that people often learn new behaviors by observing others.

Sociology

  • Cultural norms heavily influence behavior, as each society has its own rules about what is acceptable.
  • Group behavior often changes individualsโ€™ actions; people may act differently in a crowd than when alone.
  • Social roles, like being a teacher or a student, guide how people behave in different contexts.

Biology

  • Instinctive behaviors, such as migration in birds, are hardwired and do not need to be learned.
  • Many animals display learned behaviors that help them survive, like using tools to obtain food.
  • Behavioral ecology studies how environmental pressures shape the behavior of species.

Education

  • Classroom behavior management is essential for creating a positive learning environment.
  • Peer influence is a significant factor in adolescent behavior, often swaying individuals to conform.
  • Encouraging positive behavior from a young age can lead to better social skills and emotional intelligence.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often center around unpredictable behavior, showcasing human interactions in various situations.
  • Behavior is a common theme in music, from love and friendship to anger and rebellion.
  • Popular psychological thrillers explore the depths of human behavior, often revealing hidden motives.

Origin of 'behavior'

The word 'behavior' originated from the Old French word 'behaviour', which meant 'conduct or bearing'. Over time, it evolved to encompass the way individuals and animals act in various situations. The study of behavior has been a significant area in psychology, sociology, and biology, exploring the factors that influence actions and reactions. Understanding behavior helps in predicting and managing human interactions and responses.


See also: behave, behaviour, misbehave, misbehaving.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,014, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.