behavior (redirected from behaviour)

*time off for good behavior 

1. Lit. a reduction in one's prison sentence because of good behavior. (*Typically: get ~; have ~; give someone ~.) Bob will get out of jail tomorrow rather than next week. He got time off for good behavior.

2. Fig. a shortened time period—such a meeting, period of punishment, school class, etc. (Jocular. *Typically: get ~; have ~; give someone ~.) They let me out of the meeting early. They said I got time off for good behavior.

See also: good, time

on one's best behavior

being as polite as possible. When we went out, the children were on their best behavior. I try to be on my best behavior all the time.

See also: best

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be on your best behaviour  (British & Australian) also be on your best behavior (American & Australian)

to behave very well, usually because you are in an important or formal situation Now children, I want you all to be on your best behaviour when grandma arrives.

See also: best

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on your best behavior

not causing any difficulties The two candidates were on their best behavior, giving serious answers to questions from a group of citizens.

Usage notes: usually used to refer to children, but also often used to describe the actions of adults in uncomfortable situations

See also: best