wicked behaviour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wicked behaviour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions that are morally wrong or evil, often with a connotation of being mischievous or playful. Example: "The character in the story was known for his wicked behaviour, often causing trouble for those around him."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For if he should still persist in that wicked behaviour, be sure to inform us quickly, that we may [write to] princes and all people dwelling in the island of Britain, exhorting them to expel him from his most wicked rule and procure the safety of his soul.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Wicked Wicked (Young Vibez).

Vice

Worse than wicked, the IRS's behaviour was stupid: faced by angry citizens with a Don't Tread On Me loathing of taxes, the agency sent taxmen to tread on them.

The Economist

Called The Spoiler, it is a newspaper-industry satire and a very entertaining one too, in which she pokes wicked fun at the louche behaviour and slack moral code of Fleet Street's finest and lampoons the obsession with sex and celebrity that pervades even the poshest of newsrooms.

The Guardian - Books

When sentencing Layla, Judge Paul Batty QC said: "Your behaviour throughout the proceedings has been irresponsible in the extreme and many would say wicked.

The Guardian

As the discourse surrounding climate change and other wicked problems illustrates, this promotes technological solutions because they do not require substantive changes in human behaviours and underlying values systems.

BMC Public Health

My wife is a wicked, wicked person.

The New Yorker

How wicked.

The Guardian - Opinion

BRANTLEY -- "Wicked".

The New York Times

He looks wicked cool.

The New York Times

"Beyond super wicked," indeed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wicked behaviour", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended level of severity, as 'wicked' can range from playful mischief to genuine malice. If your desire is to indicate extreme malice, alternatives like "evil conduct" might be preferred.

Common error

While "wicked behaviour" is understandable, in professional or academic writing, more precise terms like "unethical practices" or "reprehensible conduct" may lend greater clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wicked behaviour" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. "Wicked" describes the type of behaviour, indicating that it is morally wrong or evil. According to Ludwig, this usage is correct and can describe actions that are morally wrong or evil, often with a connotation of being mischievous or playful.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wicked behaviour" is a valid way to describe conduct considered morally wrong or evil. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting it can imply actions ranging from mischievous to malicious. While primarily found in news, media, and wiki contexts, the phrase might benefit from stronger synonyms like "evil conduct" or "reprehensible conduct" in formal settings. By keeping these considerations in mind, writers can use "wicked behaviour" effectively to convey their intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evil conduct

Replaces 'wicked' with 'evil' and 'behaviour' with 'conduct', emphasizing the malicious nature of the actions.

depraved acts

Suggests a severe moral degradation in the actions.

immoral actions

Substitutes 'wicked behaviour' with a focus on actions that defy moral principles.

villainous deeds

Implies actions characteristic of a villain.

unethical deeds

Focuses on actions that violate ethical standards.

reprehensible conduct

Emphasizes the blameworthy nature of the behaviour.

unprincipled actions

Focuses on the lack of moral principles guiding the behaviour.

corrupt practices

Highlights the decay and dishonesty in the behaviour.

dishonorable conduct

Highlights the lack of honor or integrity in the behaviour.

naughty behavior

Softens the tone, suggesting mischievous rather than malevolent actions.

FAQs

How can I use "wicked behaviour" in a sentence?

You can use "wicked behaviour" to describe actions that are morally wrong or evil. For example: "The tyrant was infamous for his "wicked behaviour"."

What are some alternatives to "wicked behaviour"?

Alternatives include "evil conduct", "immoral actions", or "reprehensible conduct", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "wicked behaviour" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "wicked behaviour" might be more suitable for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using stronger or more precise terms such as "unethical practices" or "reprehensible conduct".

What's the difference between "wicked behaviour" and "bad behaviour"?

"Wicked behaviour" typically implies a higher degree of malevolence or moral wrongdoing than "bad behaviour", which can refer to simple misconduct or disobedience.