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 describe the good behavior of children or animals. 'artig' especially emphasizes that someone obeys, is quiet, and behaves the way adults expect. 'lieb' sounds warmer and can also mean that a child is friendly or kind. The words can easily be confused because, for example, you can say that a child is 'lieb' or 'artig'. If you mean obedience, 'artig' is more precise. If you mean a friendly, kind nature, 'lieb' sounds more natural.
Im Wartezimmer bleiben die Kinder artig auf ihren Stühlen sitzen.
In the waiting room, the children stay well-behaved in their chairs.
Das Kind war heute sehr lieb und hat seiner kleinen Schwester geholfen.
The child was very good today and helped his little sister.