mischievous streak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mischievous streak" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a tendency to be playfully or naughtily disobedient or tricky. For example: - "Despite his small size, the kitten had a mischievous streak that kept his owner on her toes." - "The mischievous streak in her personality always seemed to come out when she was around her closest friends." - "John's mischievous streak often got him into trouble at school, but his teachers couldn't help but smile at his antics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

He is an artist with a wide mischievous streak.

The New Yorker

Maurice had an appealing mischievous streak, right to the end.

The Guardian

He was known, too, for his mischievous streak, which wasn't confined to those pigs.

The New York Times - Magazine

This somber young artist would seem to have a mischievous streak.

The New York Times - Arts

If she had a rogueish, mischievous streak, she was also serious, a fervent communist.

The Guardian - Arts

At Microsoft, Hohman was known for being motivated, but also for having a mischievous streak.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Both have mischievous streaks.

The New York Times

But slightly later creations, like 1969's "TV Cello" and "TV Bra for Living Sculpture," played and worn by Paik's charismatic collaborator Charlotte Moorman, better capture his mischievous, performative streak.

The New York Times - Arts

His family remember a bright boy with a mischievous, contrary streak: "You had to bite your tongue and not say, 'Lee, don't do that' – because if you said don't do it, he'd find a way to do it," I was told.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Strange Marleen might get up to anything, and my own daughter had a mischievous and curious streak, so things probably happened.

The New Yorker

They also say she has been an integral part of her husband's success, not because she is a second engine of his ambition, but because she is a shock absorber, keeping him calm, keeping him steady and, occasionally, keeping his mischievous and arrogant streaks in check.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mischievous streak" to add a touch of playful negativity to a character or situation. It suggests a mild tendency towards naughtiness rather than outright malice.

Common error

Avoid using "mischievous streak" to describe genuinely harmful or malicious behavior. The phrase implies harmlessness or playful intent, which would be inappropriate in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mischievous streak" functions as a noun phrase that describes a quality or characteristic of a person, animal, or even an abstract entity. It indicates a tendency to engage in playful or naughty behavior. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase implies harmlessness or playful intent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mischievous streak" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase, indicating a tendency towards playful naughtiness. Ludwig's analysis shows its primary function is to characterize someone or something with a slightly naughty side, typically in a neutral register. Predominantly found in "News & Media", the expression carries an implied harmlessness, distinguishing it from more severe terms like "evil streak". Remember to use it appropriately to avoid misrepresenting the severity of the behavior. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and widespread usage across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

playful nature

Focuses on the positive, lighthearted aspect of the behavior, omitting the potentially troublesome implication.

impish side

Emphasizes a more sprite-like or elfish quality to the behavior.

naughty tendency

Highlights the disobedient aspect of the behavior, with a stronger negative connotation.

wicked sense of humor

Emphasizes the humorous intent behind potentially disruptive actions.

imp of mischief

Implies an inner urge or force driving the playful misbehavior.

fondness for pranks

Specifically refers to a liking for practical jokes.

penchant for trickery

Highlights the deceptive aspect of the behavior.

rebellious spirit

Emphasizes a defiance of rules and authority, which may manifest as mischief.

roguish charm

Combines mischievousness with an attractive or endearing quality.

teasing disposition

Focuses on the act of playfully provoking or irritating others.

FAQs

How can I use "mischievous streak" in a sentence?

You can use "mischievous streak" to describe a person or thing that has a playful tendency towards naughtiness, such as "Despite his serious demeanor, he had a "mischievous streak" that came out in pranks."

What are some synonyms for "mischievous streak"?

Alternatives to "mischievous streak" include "playful nature", "impish side", or "wicked sense of humor", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "mischievous streak" in formal writing?

While "mischievous streak" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as too informal for highly academic or professional contexts. Consider alternatives like "tendency towards playful behavior" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "mischievous streak" and "evil streak"?

"Mischievous streak" implies harmless or playful naughtiness, while "evil streak" suggests a malicious or harmful intent. The severity of the behavior is the key distinction.