misbehavior

Elementary (A2)

IPA: //ˌmɪs.bɪˈheɪ.vjər//

KK: /mɪsˈbeɪvjər/

noun

Definition

Action or conduct that is not appropriate or acceptable.

Example

The teacher addressed the student's misbehavior in class.

Conversation

Did you hear about the misbehavior at school yesterday?

Yeah, I heard some kids were causing trouble in the hallway.

It's so frustrating when they act out like that.

I know, it really disrupts everything for the rest of us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

misconduct

wrongdoing

transgression

Antonyms

behavior

conduct

obedience

Root Explanation

Misbehavior → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "behavior" (from Old French *comportement*, meaning conduct or manner of acting). The word "misbehavior" refers to conduct that is wrong or bad.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrong and 'behavior' referring to how someone acts. This helps you remember that misbehavior is acting in a wrong way.

Visually Confused Words