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

So I have to be on my best behavior when I’m out amongst them.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 18, 2024

“I often felt awkward and hyperconscious, like people were staring at me or that I always had to be on my best behavior so that I represented the Army in a positive way.”

From Washington Times • Nov. 9, 2023

We all wore our dressiest clothes and were on our best behavior because sponsors and outsiders—who might be prospective parents—visited.

From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter