coquetry

/ˈkɒkɪtri/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈkəʊkɪtri/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈkō-kə-trē kō-ˈke-trē/ (ame, mw)

coquetry — noun

1. light, teasing behaviour that makes another person notice possible romantic inte

1.名詞C2
釋義

light, teasing behaviour that makes another person notice possible romantic interest, without any real wish for something serious.

例句

A touch of coquetry in Sofie's smile kept the table laughing.

a touch of coquetry in someone's smile

During the interview, the singer used coquetry to dodge personal questions.

use coquetry to dodge personal questions

同義詞
  • flirtation

    the broad everyday word; it can describe mutual playful romantic behaviour, not only one person's manner

  • coyness

    emphasises shy or withholding behaviour more than active attention-seeking

  • teasing

    broader and often non-romantic; it may lack the romantic signal in coquetry

  • allure

    focuses on attractiveness itself, not on the playful behaviour used to create it

反義詞
  • directness

    shows open interest without teasing signals or playful uncertainty

  • reserve

    keeps attention at a distance instead of inviting it

文法句型

a touch of coquetry

coquetry towards someone

use coquetry to charm

用法筆記

Usually uncountable and somewhat literary. It often describes a manner, smile, tone, or social performance rather than a direct proposal; if the interest is clearly serious, flirtation or courtship is more likely.

常見錯誤

❌He made a coquetry at her during dinner.
✅He showed a little coquetry toward her during dinner.
💡coquetry usually names a style of behaviour, not one separate act in everyday English.
❌Their coquetry ended in marriage.
✅Their flirtation ended in marriage.
💡coquetry suggests teasing display rather than a clearly serious relationship.