Teasingly: meaning, definitions and examples

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teasingly

[ˈtiːzɪŋli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used in speech or writing to add a teasing or playful tone

In a teasing or playful manner. Typically used to imply sarcasm or light-hearted banter.

Synonyms

jokingly, mockingly, playfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
teasingly	Use when gently making fun of someone in a friendly way. He teasingly asked if she had chosen her outfit from a clown's wardrobe They teasingly teased their friend about his new haircut
playfully	Use when doing something in a fun and light-hearted manner. The children playfully chased each other around the yard She playfully splashed him with water
jokingly	Use when making a statement or comment that is meant to be funny and not taken seriously. She jokingly suggested that they should move to the moon He jokingly claimed he was the fastest runner in the world
mockingly	Use when imitating someone in a way that could be hurtful or showing disrespect. Often has a negative connotation. He mockingly repeated her high-pitched laugh, causing her to blush They mockingly mimicked their teacher's strict tone

Examples of usage

She smiled teasingly, knowing she had won the argument.
He winked teasingly at her across the room.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing behavior that is meant to provoke or annoy someone in a playful way

Characterized by teasing or making fun of someone in a light-hearted manner. Often used in the context of friendly banter or flirtation.

Synonyms

playful, provocative, teasing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
teasingly	Typically used to describe an action done in a teasing manner. It shares the same context as 'teasingly' mentioned first. He looked at her teasingly and said, 'Are you sure you can handle this challenge?'
provocative	Used to describe behavior or comments that are intended to provoke a strong reaction, which can be excitement or irritation. Her provocative comments on social media sparked a heated debate
teasing	Best for situations where someone is making fun of another playfully, but it could sometimes come off as slightly irritating. Negative connotations may arise if taken too far. He couldn't stop teasing his sister about her new haircut
playful	Used when describing behavior that is fun, spirited, and often childlike, without the intention to upset. The puppy gave a playful bark as it chased the ball

Examples of usage

Her teasingly flirtatious remarks made him blush.
The teasingly competitive banter between the siblings was a common occurrence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'teasing' comes from the Middle English 'tesen', meaning to tease or provoke.
It has roots in the Old English 'tǣsan', which meant to pull or draw, implying a playful pulling of emotions.
The suffix '-ly' indicates a manner of doing something, making 'teasingly' describe how the action of teasing is performed.

Psychology

Teasing can strengthen social bonds when done playfully, as it fosters rapport and trust.
However, it can also lead to negative feelings if perceived as bullying or mean-spirited.
Playful teasing is often a sign of affection in friendships and romantic relationships.

Literature

In many classic stories, teasing serves as a device to create tension or endear characters to readers.
Shakespeare’s works often featured witty banter and teasing dialogue to highlight character relationships.
Contemporary young adult novels frequently use teasing as a way to explore themes of love and friendship.

Pop Culture

Many sitcoms rely on playful teasing among characters to provide humor and highlight relationships.
Reality TV often showcases teasing as a way to create drama, where contestants provoke each other for entertainment.
Internet culture has embraced teasing in memes and social media, often used to humorously poke fun at trends or celebrities.

Cultural Context

In some cultures, teasing is a traditional part of courtship rituals, highlighting attraction through playful interaction.
Conversely, in more formal cultures, teasing may be less accepted and seen as inappropriate behavior.
Regional variations exist, with some communities using teasing as a bonding tool, while others may view it as disrespectful.

Translations

Translations of the word "teasingly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de maneira provocativa

🇮🇳 छेड़ते हुए

🇩🇪 neckerisch

🇮🇩 dengan menggoda

🇺🇦 дражливо

🇵🇱 drażniąco

🇯🇵 からかうように

🇫🇷 taquinement

🇪🇸 burlonamente

🇹🇷 alaycı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 놀리듯이

🇸🇦 بشكل مستفز

🇨🇿 škádlivě

🇸🇰 škádlivo

🇨🇳 调戏地

🇸🇮 dražilno

🇮🇸 stríðnislega

🇰🇿 қалжыңдап

🇬🇪 გამომწვევად

🇦🇿 zarafatla

🇲🇽 burlonamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,163 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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31160 reuniting
31161 swum
31162 barged
31163 teasingly
31164 angularity
31165 musicology
31166 overawe
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