best behavior

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He was on his best behavior since it was in dad’s London office, and advisers entered the room throughout the day.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026

They should have been on their best behavior on Tuesday to avoid any glimmer of impropriety.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2024

They’ve been on their best behavior all day.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 12, 2023

Listen, as A.I. is continuing to develop, and we don’t know if we’re making ourselves extinct to any potential sentient being, Brown is on his best behavior.

From New York Times • Jun. 24, 2023

As for the children being proof of the value of Penelope’s education...well, the Incorrigibles’ best behavior was very good indeed, but their less-than-best could be positively hair-raising.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood