Mischievous

Adjective

Definition: Causing or intending to cause harm or trouble, often playfully; inclined to play pranks or practical jokes.

Synonyms: Naughty, Impish, Prankish, Roguish

Antonyms: Well-behaved, Obedient, Good

Examples:

Mnemonics:

Think of mischief as the actions or behavior that cause harm or trouble, and mischievous as the adjective describing someone who engages in such behavior.

Origin:

Middle English 'meschevous', from Old French 'meschevous', from meschief (harm, trouble, misfortune).

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the Middle English period and has retained its meaning of causing harm or trouble throughout its history.

Idiom:

"A mischievous smile"

Explanation:

A smile that suggests someone has mischievous or playful intentions.

Misconception:

Mischievous is often mistakenly used to describe behavior that is simply playful or mischievous without any harmful intent.

Explanation:

The term specifically implies an intention to cause harm or trouble, even if it is done playfully or in jest.