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Teasingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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teasingly

[หˆtiหzษชล‹li ]

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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.
  • Shakespeareโ€™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.

Origin of 'teasingly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'teasing' comes from the Middle English 'tesen', meaning to tease or provoke.
  • It has roots in the Old English 'tวฃsan', 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.

The word 'teasingly' is derived from the verb 'tease', which dates back to the 14th century. Originally meaning 'to pull or comb apart', it later took on the additional meanings of 'to make fun of' or 'to provoke in a playful way'. The adverb form 'teasingly' emerged to describe actions or remarks that are meant to provoke or amuse in a lighthearted manner.

See also: teaser, teasing.

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.