well-behaved
/ˌwel bɪˈheɪvd/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌwel bɪˈheɪvd/ (ame, ipa)
well-behaved — adjective
1. A well-behaved child, student, or pet follows rules and instructions, stays quie
A well-behaved child, student, or pet follows rules and instructions, stays quiet when necessary, and treats others politely and kindly.
The teacher praised the whole class for being so well-behaved during the assembly.
predicative use: praised [someone] for being well-behaved
The family's well-behaved dog never jumps on visitors or barks too loudly.
attributive use before noun
A well-behaved student raises a hand before speaking in class.
The babysitter said the children were well-behaved and went to bed on time.
Young children need to learn how to be well-behaved in public places.
- obedient
Stronger emphasis on doing what you are told; more common for dogs and very young children
- polite
Focuses on manners and kindness, not necessarily on following rules
- well-mannered
Very similar in meaning; slightly more formal, often used for adults
- naughty
Playful, mild misbehaviour, usually of children
- disobedient
Refuses to follow rules or orders; stronger than 'naughty'
文法句型
well-behaved + noun
be + well-behaved
用法筆記
Most frequently describes children, students, or pets. Works both before a noun ('a well-behaved class') and after the verb 'be' ('the dog was well-behaved').