Unruliness: meaning, definitions and examples

Duplicate word, see first entry.

This term is best used when talking about a lack of order or organization, often in a physical space or setting, such as a messy room.

• The disorderliness of his workspace made it difficult to find important documents

This is commonly used when referring to the act of not following rules or instructions, often in a context involving authority, such as a child ignoring a parent's instructions.

• The child's disobedience resulted in a timeout

This term often refers to behaviour that is extremely uncontrolled or untamed, sometimes in a positive sense such as adventurous spirit, or negatively when referring to reckless actions.

• The wildness of the party surprised everyone
• / His wildness led him to explore uncharted territories

This word is often used when describing behavior that is difficult to control or manage. It has a formal tone and can describe both minor and more serious infractions.

• The teacher was frustrated by the unruliness of the students
• The unruliness of the crowd led to the event being canceled

This word describes playful or mildly problematic behavior, often from children. It's usually used in a light-hearted or affectionate way.

• The boy’s mischievousness was evident when he tied his sister’s shoelaces together
• Her mischievous grin hinted at the prank she was planning

Typically applied to children, this word refers to disobedient or troublesome behavior. It has a negative but not severe connotation.

• The girl's naughtiness was evident when she refused to follow the rules
• His naughtiness often led to time-outs and lectures from his parents

This word is used for behavior that shows resistance to authority or control, and can apply to both minor and significant acts of defiance.

• Her rebelliousness was clear when she refused to wear the school uniform
• The teenager's rebelliousness caused frequent arguments with his parents