Word
learned behavior
Definition
compound. a way of acting that you pick up from your environment or by practicing, rather than being born with it.
compound. an action or reaction acquired through experience, observation, or conditioning, as opposed to innate or instinctual responses.
Examples
“Using a fork is a learned behavior, not an instinct.”
“Psychologists believe that many of our social habits are actually learned behavior from our early childhood years.”
“The researcher argued that the birds' ability to open milk bottles was a learned behavior passed down through the local population.”
Examples
simple
“Using a fork is a learned behavior, not an instinct.”
contextual
“Psychologists believe that many of our social habits are actually learned behavior from our early childhood years.”
complex
“The researcher argued that the birds' ability to open milk bottles was a learned behavior passed down through the local population.”
Usage
often used in scientific, psychological, or educational contexts to contrast with 'instinct'.
Teaching tip
use this to teach the difference between 'innate' and 'acquired'; it is a useful term for students discussing nature versus nurture.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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