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

If you can do the cauliflower, you better be on your best behavior.’

From Slate • Oct. 31, 2024

I was told that if I was on my best behavior, I would go to the sought-after public elementary school down the street and finally get my own room.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2024

“Critiquing the institution, if done at a high crescendo, hopefully gets the court to be on their best behavior in the future,” Mr. Green said.

From New York Times • Jul. 13, 2023

We were so impressed by the comforts and quiet organization of the Mollers’ home that we were subdued and on our best behavior.

From "Cheaper by the Dozen" by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey