well-behaved
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well-behaved
Describes behavior that is perceived as good, obedient, and polite, especially in children.
Wenn du beim Arzt artig bist, bekommst du danach ein Eis.
If you are well-behaved at the doctor's, you'll get an ice cream afterward.
The adjective 'artig' (well-behaved) is derived from the noun 'die Art' in the sense of 'way of behaving' or 'manner'. An 'artiges' (well-behaved) child is therefore a child with a good way of behaving, that is, with good manners.
Er hat sich bei der Gastgeberin artig für die Einladung bedankt.
He politely thanked the hostess for the invitation.
This word is used almost exclusively for children. If you use it for adults, it can sound condescending or ironic.
Die Kinder saßen ganz artig am Tisch und malten.
The children sat very well-behaved at the table and drew pictures.
'Artig' (well-behaved) is very often used together with the verb 'sein' (to be). Other typical combinations are 'artig warten' (to wait nicely), 'artig zuhören' (to listen nicely), or 'sich artig verhalten' (to behave well).
Sei bitte artig, während wir einkaufen gehen.
Please be well-behaved while we go shopping.
nice / dear
„Lieb“ and „artig“ can both refer to a child who behaves well. „Lieb“ describes the person as friendly and kind-hearted, while „artig“ specifically evaluates their concrete behavior as obedient and polite. Choose „lieb“ for an impression of someone’s character and „artig“ for the behavior you observe.
Anna war im Unterricht artig und wartete geduldig auf ihre Antwort.
Anna behaved well in class and waited patiently for her answer.
Anna ist ein liebes Kind und tröstet ihre traurige Freundin.
Anna is a sweet child and comforts her sad friend.
