tacky behavior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tacky behavior" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or conduct that are considered in poor taste or lacking in style. Example: "His tacky behavior at the formal event made everyone uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"These temporary appointments have often been subject to abuse or tacky behavior," said Mr. Mann, adding, "I suspect this will lead a number of states to dispense with the temporary appointments and go directly to a special election".

The New York Times

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Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For you to call me tacky and to say I am displaying improper behavior is the true disheartening part.

Huffington Post

Fox has trafficked in tacky tactics before, with shows like "Celebrity Boxing" and "Shocking Behavior Caught on Tape".

The New York Times

How tacky.

The New York Times

Tacky fun.

Independent

("Tacky. Tasteless").

The Guardian

"It's terribly tacky".

Independent

It's just tacky.

The New York Times

In a word: tacky.

The New York Times

It's tacky".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions that are merely in poor taste and not necessarily harmful or malicious, "tacky behavior" is a suitable descriptor. Use it to convey a sense of something being unrefined or lacking sophistication.

Common error

Avoid using "tacky behavior" in highly formal or professional settings where a more nuanced or sophisticated vocabulary is expected. Alternatives like "inappropriate conduct" or "unprofessional behavior" may be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tacky behavior" functions as a descriptor, where 'tacky' modifies 'behavior' to indicate actions that are considered to be in poor taste or lacking in refinement. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tacky behavior" describes actions considered to be in poor taste or lacking in refinement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for written English. While primarily found in News & Media, the phrase conveys disapproval and can be replaced with alternatives like "inappropriate conduct" or "distasteful behavior" for more formal contexts. Use it judiciously to convey a sense of something being unrefined without necessarily being offensive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distasteful behavior

Replaces 'tacky' with 'distasteful', focusing on the unpleasant or offensive nature of the behavior.

inappropriate conduct

Replaces 'tacky' with a more general term for unsuitable behavior and 'behavior' with 'conduct'.

vulgar actions

Substitutes 'tacky' with 'vulgar', implying offensive or crude behavior and 'behavior' with 'actions'.

boorish behavior

Utilizes 'boorish' to describe behavior that is rough and bad-mannered.

crass conduct

Uses 'crass' to describe behavior that lacks refinement or sensitivity, substituting 'behavior' with 'conduct'.

improper deportment

Replaces 'behavior' with 'deportment' for a more formal tone, while 'improper' conveys the inappropriateness.

uncouth actions

Employs 'uncouth' to suggest behavior that is rude or lacking in manners, and replaces 'behavior' with 'actions'.

cheap behavior

Suggests that the behavior is of poor quality or lacking in taste, similar to 'tacky'.

gaudy behavior

Emphasizes the showy and tasteless aspect of the behavior, similar to 'tacky'.

low-class actions

Highlights the lack of sophistication or refinement in the behavior and uses 'actions' instead of 'behavior'.

FAQs

How can I describe "tacky behavior" in more formal terms?

In more formal contexts, consider using terms like "inappropriate conduct", "unprofessional behavior", or "distasteful behavior". These alternatives provide a more refined way to express disapproval of someone's actions.

What's the difference between "tacky behavior" and vulgar behavior?

"Tacky behavior" generally refers to actions that are in poor taste or lacking in style, while "vulgar behavior" implies actions that are crude, offensive, or explicitly indecent. "Tacky behavior" might be a matter of aesthetics or social grace, whereas vulgar behavior is more likely to be morally objectionable.

Is "tacky behavior" always considered offensive?

Not necessarily. While "tacky behavior" implies a lack of refinement or good taste, it's not always inherently offensive. It depends on the context and the specific actions being described. Something considered "tacky" might be harmless or even humorous in certain situations.

What are some examples of "tacky behavior"?

Examples of "tacky behavior" could include wearing excessively flashy clothing to a funeral, making inappropriate jokes at a formal event, or displaying overly sentimental or ostentatious decorations. The key is that the behavior is perceived as being in poor taste or lacking in social grace.