behaving like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "behaving like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's actions or demeanor in a specific manner, often implying disapproval or concern. Example: "I don't understand why you're behaving like that; it's not how you usually act."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

You cannot have public leaders behaving like that and thinking it is acceptable".

The Guardian

Make it clear to them that behaving like that only makes you less likely to want to spend time with them.

WikiHow

"But that he was behaving like that word".

The New York Times

Would a woman designer risk behaving like that?

The New York Times - Style

Moreover, they do not waste their resources by behaving like that all the time.

The Economist

"It's so sexist to persecute them and to let these guys go around behaving like that".

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Normal banks don't behave like that (we hope).

The Guardian - Business

The phlegmatic Brits don't behave like that.

The Guardian - Opinion

And the answer is no — wages (and many prices) don't behave like that.

The New York Times

He resolved never to behave like that to someone who needed his help.

The New Yorker

Civilised nations do not behave like that in the 21st century.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "behaving like that", ensure the context clearly defines what 'that' refers to, preventing ambiguity. For instance, specify the unacceptable behavior you're addressing.

Common error

Avoid using "behaving like that" without clearly defining what the 'that' refers to. Instead of saying "He's behaving like that", specify the behavior: "He's behaving aggressively and disrespectfully."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "behaving like that" functions as a descriptive element, often used to comment on or question someone's actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and readily understood expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "behaving like that" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express concern, disapproval, or surprise regarding someone's actions. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science and Wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what 'that' refers to, and consider related phrases like ""acting that way"" or ""conducting oneself in that way"" for alternative expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting that way

Simplifies the phrasing while retaining the core meaning.

acting in such a way

More general and less specific than the original phrase.

acting in that manner

Changes the verb and uses a more formal noun.

conducting oneself in that way

Emphasizes self-control and formality.

going on like that

Indicates a continuation of undesirable behavior.

carrying on like that

Adds a sense of disapproval or drama.

responding in that fashion

Focuses on the reaction or reply.

performing like that

Implies a staged or deliberate action.

mannering like that

An archaic way of stating the behaviour.

functioning in that capacity

Suggests a role or duty is being carried out.

FAQs

What does "behaving like that" mean?

The phrase "behaving like that" refers to acting in a specific way that has already been mentioned or is easily understood from the context. It often implies disapproval or surprise.

What can I say instead of "behaving like that"?

You can use alternatives like "acting that way", "conducting oneself in that way", or "carrying on like that" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "behaving like that"?

Yes, "behaving like that" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

How can I use "behaving like that" in a sentence?

You can use "behaving like that" to express disapproval or concern about someone's actions. For example, "I don't understand why he is "acting that way", it's out of character."