well-behaved child

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "well-behaved child" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a child who behaves in a manner that is socially acceptable or expected. An example would be: "The teacher praised the well-behaved child for following the rules." Alternative expressions include "well-mannered child" and "disciplined child."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Dasha says she is "extremely pleased" with the biennale, like it's a well-behaved child.

The Guardian - Arts

"If I leave this earth, I'm going to leave knowing that I have a well-behaved child," Elisa said.

The New York Times

In "Eulalie and the Hopping Head," a mother toad takes in a doll she mistakes for an extremely well-behaved child (even though its head keeps falling off).

The New York Times - Books

Today a well-off couple may live with a single well-behaved child in a courtyard home that once housed more than a dozen people.

The New York Times - Arts

I was a quiet, shy and well-behaved child and yet somehow, whenever I found myself in trouble, it was with the priests.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I love you!" A little boy who is happy to field balls for older kids at the park, a little boy who makes old ladies at the grocery store stop to compliment him for being such a well-behaved child.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Fine for well-behaved children.

The New York Times

THE CROWD Mostly adults; a few well-behaved children.

The New York Times

THE CROWD Families with well-behaved children, romantic empty-nesters.

The New York Times

Why do some well-behaved children become problematic teenagers?

The Guardian

Noise levels are moderate, and well-behaved children are welcome.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a child's behavior, be specific about the context. Instead of simply stating "a "well-behaved child"", provide examples of their good behavior, such as "a "well-behaved child" who always shares their toys".

Common error

Avoid using "well-behaved" as a generic compliment without specific examples. This lacks impact and doesn't provide insight into the child's actual behavior. Instead, offer concrete observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well-behaved child" functions as a noun phrase where "well-behaved" is an adjective modifying the noun "child". It describes a child who exhibits good behavior, manners, and obedience. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "well-behaved child" is a grammatically sound and reasonably common way to describe a child exhibiting good conduct and manners. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, and academia. While the term is generally neutral, it’s advisable to use specific examples to illustrate the child's behavior, avoiding vague praise. Alternatives like "obedient child" or "well-mannered child" can offer slightly different shades of meaning. Remember to tailor your language to the context and audience for maximum clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obedient child

Focuses on the child's compliance with rules and instructions.

well-mannered child

Emphasizes politeness and social graces.

good child

A simpler, more general term for positive behavior.

child who behaves well

A more descriptive phrasing of the concept.

child with impeccable manners

Highlights exceptional politeness and etiquette.

child with good conduct

Highlights the child's behavior in a formal or official setting.

dutiful child

Stresses the child's sense of responsibility and obedience.

tractable child

Emphasizes the child's willingness to be guided or directed.

easy-to-manage child

Focuses on the perspective of caregivers and the child's ease of handling.

amiable child

Focuses on the child's pleasant and agreeable nature.

FAQs

How can I use "well-behaved child" in a sentence?

You can use "well-behaved child" to describe a child who follows rules and exhibits good manners, such as, "The parents were proud of their "well-behaved child" because he always listened to his elders".

What's a more formal way to say "well-behaved child"?

A more formal alternative to "well-behaved child" is "well-mannered child". This emphasizes politeness and social graces.

What are some qualities of a "well-behaved child"?

Qualities of a "well-behaved child" typically include obedience, politeness, respectfulness, and the ability to follow instructions. They generally exhibit "good conduct" in various social settings.

Is it appropriate to describe teenagers as "well-behaved children"?

While teenagers can exhibit good behavior, describing them as "well-behaved children" might sound condescending. It's often more appropriate to acknowledge their maturity and use terms like "responsible teenager" or "respectful young adult".