Misbehavior: meaning, definitions and examples

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misbehavior

[ˌmɪs.bɪˈheɪ.vjər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in schools

Misbehavior refers to inappropriate or unacceptable actions or conduct, especially in the context of rules or norms. It may include defiance, disobedience, or disruption of the learning environment.

Synonyms

disobedience, misconduct, naughtiness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
misbehavior	Use this term to describe general wrong or improper behavior, often used in reference to children but can apply to adults as well in informal situations. The students' misbehavior in class was unacceptable Her constant misbehavior at work led to her being reprimanded
misconduct	This term is best used in formal contexts to describe improper or unethical behavior, often in professional settings. It implies a serious breach of rules or ethics. The officer was dismissed for professional misconduct The company's misconduct during the investigations caused a major scandal
naughtiness	Naughtiness is often used to describe playful or mischievous behavior in children. It carries a more light-hearted, less serious connotation. The child's naughtiness was cute but sometimes disruptive His naughtiness got him into trouble during playtime
disobedience	This word is suitable for situations where there is a deliberate refusal to follow rules, instructions, or authority. It often applies to children but can also be used in more formal or legal contexts. His disobedience to the school rules resulted in a suspension The protestors' disobedience against government orders was widely reported

Examples of usage

His constant misbehavior in class led to frequent detentions.
The school has strict policies in place to address student misbehavior.
Teachers often struggle to manage misbehavior effectively in the classroom.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Misbehavior can also refer to actions that are considered unacceptable or inappropriate in a broader social or ethical context. It may involve breaking laws, social norms, or moral codes.

Synonyms

impropriety, transgression, wrongdoing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
misbehavior	Refers to inappropriate or disruptive actions, often minor, especially in children or students. The teacher had to address the student's misbehavior in class. His constant misbehavior at the dinner table was becoming a concern.
wrongdoing	General term for unethical or illegal actions, can be used in a variety of contexts. The company was implicated in several instances of wrongdoing. He confessed to his wrongdoing and apologized.
impropriety	Indicates behavior that is not morally or socially acceptable, often used in formal or professional settings. The politician's impropriety led to a formal investigation. She was fined for her impropriety at the workplace.
transgression	Denotes a violation of law, command, or duty; often used in religious or moral contexts. Stealing is considered a serious transgression against society's rules. The community was shocked by his transgression against their traditional values.

Examples of usage

The politician's misbehavior scandalized the public.
Corporate misbehavior can lead to legal consequences.
Her misbehavior at the party caused quite a stir.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Children's misbehavior often relates to seeking attention, showing that they want to be noticed or heard.
Studies show that a positive environment can reduce instances of misbehavior, focusing on encouragement rather than punishment.
Some misbehavior stems from frustration or the inability to communicate feelings, highlighting the importance of emotional literacy.

Education

In classrooms, teachers often use structured routines to help minimize misbehavior and promote a positive learning atmosphere.
Behavior management strategies like positive reinforcement encourage good behavior rather than just punishing bad actions.
Understanding cultural differences is crucial, as behaviors seen as misbehavior in one culture might be acceptable in another.

Social Norms

Misbehavior can vary widely depending on context; what's considered misbehavior in a formal setting might be acceptable in casual situations.
Peer influence plays a significant role in misbehavior, particularly during adolescence, when fitting in becomes a priority for many.

Literature

Many classic children's stories explore themes of misbehavior and redemption, teaching important lessons about choices and consequences.
In novels, characters often face conflicts stemming from their misbehavior, driving the plot and character development.

Translations

Translations of the word "misbehavior" in other languages:

🇵🇹 má conduta

🇮🇳 दुराचार

🇩🇪 Fehlverhalten

🇮🇩 perilaku buruk

🇺🇦 погана поведінка

🇵🇱 złe zachowanie

🇯🇵 不正行為

🇫🇷 mauvaise conduite

🇪🇸 mala conducta

🇹🇷 kötü davranış

🇰🇷 잘못된 행동

🇸🇦 سوء السلوك

🇨🇿 špatné chování

🇸🇰 nesprávne správanie

🇨🇳 不当行为

🇸🇮 neprimerno vedenje

🇮🇸 óviðeigandi hegðun

🇰🇿 нашар мінез-құлық

🇬🇪 ცუდი ქცევა

🇦🇿 pis davranış

🇲🇽 mala conducta

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,311, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23308 marvellously
23309 thimble
23310 spilt
23311 misbehavior
23312 fiercest
23313 monotheism
23314 cytosol
...