Words / B2

bi-HAYV/bɪˈheɪv/

To behave is to act in a particular way, especially well or badly: behave well, behave like a child. Act is a close everyday verb; conduct yourself is formal. Behaviour is the British noun spelling. Behave yourself is a warning to children (and a joke to adults). How someone behaves is more natural in speech than their behaviour when you want a simple comment.

Meaning

To act in a particular way, especially well or badly.

Examples

• “The children behaved well on the trip.”
• “The crowd behaved calmly when the lights failed.”
• “If you behave as if the test is easy, you will under-prepare.”

Good to know

behave well / badly. Noun: behaviour (British spelling). Everyday: act. Formal: conduct yourself.

Near in meaning

act

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