B1verbrelationshipspsychology
US/bɪˈheɪv/
UK/bɪˈheɪv/
to act in a certain way; also to be polite and follow the rules others expect
In context
If you behave well at Grandma's house, we'll buy you ice cream.
He behaved very strangely after he lost his job.
Some tourists don't know how to behave in a temple.
Words that go with behave
verb + noun
- behave yourselfBehave yourself, or you'll have to leave the party.
verb + adverb
- behave badlyFans who behave badly at the stadium will be banned.
- behave differentlyPeople often behave differently when they are online.
verb + preposition
- behave likeStop behaving like a child and say sorry.
- behave towardsI don't like the way he behaves towards waiters.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He behaves not good with his parents.Correct: He behaves badly towards his parents.