good behavior

American  

noun

1. satisfactory, proper, or polite conduct.

2. conduct conformable to law; orderly conduct.

   The convict's sentence was reduced for good behavior.

3. proper fulfillment of the duties of an office, especially a public office.

   The incumbent could not be discharged during good behavior.

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Example Sentences

It is what happens when you stop rewarding dysfunction and start recognizing good behavior.

From The Wall Street Journal

Nearly 30 inmates, selected for good behavior, donned tuxedos with pink boutonnieres and waited as daughters, some dressed in formal gowns, were led into the prison’s Bible college transformed into a makeshift dance hall.

From Salon

But in the past two decades, it has rehabilitated itself to include incentives for good behavior like an annual rodeo, an inmate-run radio station and magazine, a 9-hole golf course and recreation area on site and life skills training for careers like cook, firefighter and mechanic and in graphic communications.

From Salon

Only on rare occasions did their good behavior falter: for example, when peas were unexpectedly served at luncheon.

From Literature

“It takes patience, I suppose, and a great many reminders, and we must be careful to avoid temptation, especially if the children are hungry. Treats are also useful, as a reward for good behavior.”

From Literature

Related Words

• correctness
• decency
• decorum
• dignity
• modesty
• rectitude
• respectability