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Misbehavior: meaning, definitions and examples

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misbehavior

 

[ ˌmɪs.bɪˈheɪ.vjər ]

Noun
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?

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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?

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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.

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

Etymology

The word 'misbehavior' dates back to the mid-19th century and is derived from the combination of 'mis-' meaning 'badly' or 'wrongly' and 'behavior'. It has been used to describe actions that go against established rules or norms, both in academic and general contexts.

See also: behavioral, behaviorist, behaviors.

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.