childishly

Everyday

1. In a silly, immature way that is not right for someone's age (said of older children and adults, usually as criticism). tree →
2. In a way like a child, simply and innocently (childishly happy). tree →

In the lessons

In stories it criticises a grown-up or older child who sulks, stamps or throws a tantrum. Sometimes it is kind, describing simple joy. It tells the reader someone is acting younger than they are. Similar: «immaturely»; opposite «maturely».

Examples

• The two men argued childishly over a parking space. tree →
• He childishly refused to share the remote. tree →
• She stamped her foot childishly and stormed off. tree →
• Grandad laughed childishly at his own joke. tree →
• Stop behaving so childishly; you're twelve! tree →
• They were childishly excited about the snow. tree →

Note

Adverb from «childish». Trap: «childish» is usually negative (silly, immature), while «childlike» is positive (innocent, full of wonder). «Childlike wonder» is praise; «childish behaviour» is criticism.