behave
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /bɪˈheɪv/
KK: /bɪˈheɪv/
intransitive verb
Definition
To act or conduct oneself in a certain manner, especially in a way that is considered proper or acceptable.
Example
The dog always behaves well when we have guests over.
Tense Forms
Past: behaved
Past Participle: behaved
Conversation
Did you see how the dog behave during the training session?
Yeah, he was so well-behaved!
It's amazing how quickly he can learn to behave properly.
Totally! Consistency really makes a difference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
act
conduct
perform
Antonyms
misbehave
disobey
rebel
transitive verb
Definition
To act or conduct oneself in a certain manner, especially in a way that is considered proper or acceptable.
Example
The children were told to behave during the school assembly.
Tense Forms
Past: behaved
Past Participle: behaved
Conversation
Did you see how well the kids behave at the event yesterday?
Yeah, they were surprisingly good for their age!
I was really impressed; I didn't expect them to behave like that.
Root Explanation
Behave originates from the Old English 'beheafdian', which is formed from 'be-' (meaning by or about) and 'hæfdian' (meaning to have or hold). The word 'behave' means to conduct oneself in a certain manner or to hold oneself in a particular way.
Memory Tip
Think of 'holding oneself' ('hæfdian') in a certain way ('be-') to remember that 'behave' means to conduct oneself appropriately.
Visually Confused Words
beaver
misbehave
have
eave