Behaviour: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate when discussing general actions or conduct of a person, often in everyday situations or scientific studies.

• Her behaviour during the meeting was exemplary
• Children's behaviour can vary significantly from day to day

Used in a more formal setting to describe how someone carries out their actions, often relating to ethical or professional standards.

• His conduct during the investigation was commendable
• The company's code of conduct requires all employees to act with integrity

Focuses on the outward display of a person's mood or personality, often observed in social contexts.

• Her calm and composed demeanor impressed everyone at the event
• Despite the pressure, he maintained a cheerful demeanor

Refers to the way someone behaves towards others, often in terms of politeness and respect.

• His friendly manner made him popular among his peers
• She was praised for her courteous manner with clients

Refers to a person's feelings or thoughts about something, often conveyed by their behaviour.

• His attitude towards work has always been very positive
• She has a relaxed attitude about deadlines

Primarily used in formal contexts to describe a person's behavior and posture, especially regarding politeness and elegance.

• Her deportment was always impeccable at royal events
• He received lessons in deportment to improve his public image

General term for how someone acts, applicable in almost any situation where the overall conduct of a person or animal is being assessed.

• Her behaviour at school has improved significantly.
• We are studying the behaviour of dolphins in their natural habitats.

Refers to specific deeds or activities carried out by someone, often highlighting particular things done intentionally.

• His actions during the crisis were commendable.
• You need to take more proactive actions to achieve your goals.

Describes immediate responses to a stimulus, event, or action. Often used in contexts involving emotional or physical responses.

• His reactions to criticism are always very defensive.
• The crowd's reactions to the performance were overwhelmingly positive.

Refers to replies or answers to stimuli, questions, or situations. It can encompass both planned and unplanned reactions.

• Her responses to the interview questions were insightful.
• We are still awaiting their responses to our proposal.

A formal term usually used to describe how someone behaves in a professional or official capacity.

• The soldier's conduct in battle earned him a medal.
• The employee's conduct during the meeting was unacceptable.

Focuses on the style or way someone behaves, often in terms of politeness, attitude, or peculiarities.

• She spoke in a calm and collected manner.
• His manner of walking is very unique.

Used to describe the actions and mannerisms of a person or animal. It can also suggest whether someone is acting correctly or incorrectly.

• His behaviour at the party was unacceptable.
• The dog's behaviour improved after training.

Can refer to the functioning of machines, systems, or organized activities. It can also mean a medical procedure.

• The operation of the new device is user-friendly.
• She had a successful operation to remove the tumor.

Describes how well something operates or works, often referring to machines or systems.

• The functioning of the new software was impressive.
• The machine's functioning deteriorated over time.

Refers to how well a person, machine, or system does a job or activity. It can also mean a public presentation like a play or concert.

• Her performance in the exam was outstanding.
• The band's live performance was amazing.

Often related to the process of carrying out a task or plan. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to carrying out a death sentence.

• The execution of the project plan went smoothly.
• The execution of the criminal was carried out at dawn.