Word: demeanors

Associations

The word "demeanors" refers to a person's outward behavior or conduct. It describes how a person presents themselves, including their attitude, appearance, and mannerisms.

• Example 1: Her cheerful demeanor made everyone feel welcome at the party. (She had a friendly and inviting attitude.)
• Example 2: His serious demeanor during the meeting showed how important he thought the topic was. (He behaved in a focused and solemn manner.)
• Example 3: A calm demeanor can help you handle stressful situations better. (Being composed can be beneficial in tough moments.)

A synonym for "demeanors" is "conduct," but "demeanor" focuses more on the external aspects of behavior, while "conduct" may include moral or ethical considerations.

Substitution

You can use words like "behavior," "manners," or "attitude" in place of "demeanors."

• Behavior can refer to actions but might not always describe how someone looks or feels.
• Manners specifically relate to social behaviors, often in terms of politeness.
• Attitude usually emphasizes a person's viewpoint or feelings about something.

Deconstruction

The word "demeanors" comes from the root "demeanor," which is derived from the Old French "demener," meaning to lead or conduct oneself. The suffix "-or" is often used to denote a person or thing that performs a specific action. Thus, "demeanor" reflects how a person conducts themselves.

Inquiry

• How would you describe your own demeanor in a new situation, like meeting new people?
• Can you think of a time when someone's demeanor influenced your feelings or reactions?
• Why do you think it's important to be aware of others' demeanors in social settings?