behave in
prep. phr.. B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford
prep. phr.. to act or conduct oneself in a particular way; the preposition 'in' shows the manner or context of the behavior.
prep. phr.. to act or conduct oneself in a specific manner; the preposition 'in' introduces the context or manner of the behavior.
He behaves in a respectful way.
The teacher asked the students to behave in a quiet manner during the exam.
In the presence of the committee, the witness was instructed to behave in a composed and respectful manner.
Usage
followed by a noun phrase indicating the manner or context of the behavior.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'behave like' (referring to mannerisms) versus 'behave in' (referring to a specific context or way).