Childishness: meaning, definitions and examples

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childishness

 

[[ˈtʃaɪldɪʃnəs] ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

behavior

Childishness refers to the state or quality of being immature, childish, or naive. It is the tendency to behave in a silly, petty, or irresponsible manner, similar to that of a child.

Synonyms

childlike behavior, immaturity, naivety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childishness

Refer to the same word twice for emphasis here might have been an error.

immaturity

Refers to lack of emotional or psychological development. Generally used in a critical or negative context.

  • His immaturity is holding him back at work.
  • The immaturity of their actions was clear to everyone.
naivety

Describes a lack of experience or sophistication, often resulting in overly simple or overly trusting behavior. Can be neutral or subtly negative depending on context.

  • Her naivety led her to believe the scammer.
  • While his naivety is charming, it can sometimes get him into trouble.
childlike behavior

Typically used to describe behavior that is simple, innocent, or full of wonder, often with a positive connotation.

  • Her childlike behavior at the theme park was heartwarming.
  • He approaches life with childlike behavior, always curious and enthusiastic.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't stand his childishness any longer.
  • His childishness was evident in the way he pouted when he didn't get his way.
Context #2 | Noun

quality

Childishness can also refer to a characteristic or trait of being childlike, innocent, or playful. It is often associated with a sense of wonder and creativity.

Synonyms

childlike quality, innocence, playfulness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childishness

This is often used negatively to describe behavior that is immature or inappropriate for an adult.

  • His childishness showed when he threw a tantrum over a trivial matter
innocence

Generally positive, innocence refers to the state of being free from guilt, malice, or corruption, often associated with children.

  • The innocence in his eyes convinced everyone that he was telling the truth
playfulness

This word has a positive connotation and is used to describe someone who is fun-loving, lighthearted, and enjoys playful activities.

  • Her playfulness made the party a lot more enjoyable for everyone
childlike quality

This phrase has a more neutral or positive tone and is used to describe qualities that are pure, simple, and straightforward, reminiscent of a child's perspective.

  • Her childlike quality shone through in her candid and innocent questions

Examples of usage

  • His childishness brought a sense of joy and lightness to the room.
  • The artist's work was praised for its childlike whimsy and imagination.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Adults displaying childishness might revert to earlier coping mechanisms when stressed, a process called regression.
  • The tendency to be childish can be linked to emotional intelligence, where some struggle to express feelings maturely.
  • Studies indicate that playful behavior, often seen as childish, can actually enhance creativity and problem-solving in adults.

Literature

  • In many works, characters who embody childishness often represent innocence and spontaneity, challenging societal norms.
  • Classic novels frequently juxtapose childishness with adult responsibilities to explore themes of freedom and conformity.
  • Authors like J.M. Barrie, in 'Peter Pan', celebrate the value of retaining a child's perspective amidst adult realities.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures view childishness variously; some celebrate the laughter and joy it brings, while others may see it as a lack of maturity.
  • In many societies, adulthood is associated with responsibility, contrasting with the freedom and playfulness of childhood.
  • Cultural phenomena like ‘adulting’ highlight a desire to balance youthful joy and grown-up obligations.

Pop Culture

  • Many TV shows and films, like 'The Office', feature characters who display childishness for comedic effect, illustrating adult folly.
  • The rise of 'lighthearted' adult cartoons, such as 'Adventure Time', reflects a significant appreciation for the whimsical side of childishness.
  • Internet memes often capitalize on childish behavior, encouraging adults to embrace silliness in their lives.

Developmental Psychology

  • Childishness in adults can sometimes signal unresolved issues from childhood, suggesting a need for healing.
  • Research shows that playfulness, often linked to childishness, is crucial for social bonding and emotional well-being across all ages.
  • Developmental psychologists emphasize that maintaining a child-like perspective can significantly enhance life satisfaction.

Translations

Translations of the word "childishness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 infantilidade

🇮🇳 बचकानापन

🇩🇪 Kindlichkeit

🇮🇩 kekanak-kanakan

🇺🇦 дитинність

🇵🇱 dziecinność

🇯🇵 幼稚さ (ようちさ)

🇫🇷 enfantillage

🇪🇸 infantilismo

🇹🇷 çocukluk

🇰🇷 유치함

🇸🇦 طفولية

🇨🇿 dětinskost

🇸🇰 detskosť

🇨🇳 孩子气 (hái zi qì)

🇸🇮 otroškost

🇮🇸 barnalegt eðli

🇰🇿 балаңдық

🇬🇪 ბავშვურობა

🇦🇿 uşaqlıq

🇲🇽 infantilismo

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,093 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.