very well behaved

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very well behaved" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone, typically a child or pet, who is acting in a manner that is polite, obedient, or compliant. Example: "The dog was very well behaved during the training session, following all commands without hesitation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Beverley Johnstone, English teacher, Tunbridge Wells girls' grammar in Kent I was very well behaved at school and so don't remember any awful childhood punishments.

The Guardian

"He's very well behaved.

The New York Times

Everyone was very well behaved.

The Guardian - Music

They're always very well behaved".

The New York Times

"This was very well behaved".

The New York Times - Sports

He was very well behaved, actually.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

"We're very well-behaved.

The New Yorker

"I was a very well-behaved teen".

The New Yorker

"It's a very well-behaved crowd, generally.

The New York Times

"We were very professional and very well-behaved".

The New York Times

We are, after all, a very well-behaved crowd.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "very well behaved", consider the specific context. Use this phrase when you want to highlight not just good behavior, but a noticeable level of compliance and politeness. For example, use it for children in formal settings or animals in training scenarios.

Common error

Avoid using "very well behaved" too casually in everyday conversation. In less formal settings, simpler terms like "good" or "polite" may sound more natural. Overuse can make your language sound stilted or overly formal, so choose your words according to the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very well behaved" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to describe its conduct or behavior. Ludwig AI indicates that is a correct and usable expression. It denotes a high degree of compliance, politeness, or obedience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very well behaved" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that denotes an exceptional level of good conduct. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for use across varied contexts, particularly in news and media. While its neutral register makes it generally appropriate, be mindful to avoid overuse in overly informal settings where simpler adjectives suffice. When seeking alternatives, consider choices like "extremely well-mannered" or "exceptionally obedient" to tailor your language to the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfectly behaved

Indicates an ideal standard of conduct, suggesting flawless behavior.

extremely well-mannered

Emphasizes politeness and social etiquette, a stronger degree of good behavior.

exceptionally obedient

Highlights compliance with commands or rules, focusing on following instructions.

impeccably behaved

Stresses faultless behavior, often in formal or high-pressure situations.

remarkably disciplined

Focuses on self-control and adherence to a structured lifestyle or code of conduct.

exhibited exemplary manners

Puts emphasis on good etiquette and social graces.

highly compliant

Highlights agreement with requests or suggestions, focusing on agreement and cooperation.

model of good behavior

Presents the subject as an example of how one should act, emphasizing its exemplary nature.

showed admirable conduct

Focuses on behavior in specific situations, highlighting respectability and appropriateness.

demonstrated excellent deportment

Stresses composure and behavior especially in public environments.

FAQs

How can I use "very well behaved" in a sentence?

You can use "very well behaved" to describe someone or something exhibiting excellent conduct. For example: "The children were "very well behaved" during the church ceremony" or "The new software is "very well behaved", showing no errors during testing".

What are some alternatives to saying "very well behaved"?

Alternatives include "extremely well-mannered", "exceptionally obedient", or "remarkably disciplined". The best choice depends on the specific aspect of good behavior you wish to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "very well behaved", or should it be "very well-behaved"?

Both forms are acceptable, but "very well behaved" is more common. Using a hyphen ("very well-behaved") is also grammatically correct, especially when used as a compound adjective before a noun, though the unhyphenated form is more frequent and fluid.

What's the difference between "well behaved" and "very well behaved"?

The addition of "very" intensifies the degree of good behavior. "Well behaved" indicates good conduct, while ""very well behaved"" suggests an exceptional or noteworthy level of good conduct.