adj
mannered
adj
1
Having a particular, often exaggerated or artificial, style of behaving or performing.
"Critics found his acting overly mannered and stiff."
"She has a very mannered way of speaking that some find charming and others find affected."
How to Use Mannered
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a style, often in art or behaviour, that feels artificial or exaggerated rather than natural.
When to use it
Usually used in criticism of art, writing, or performance — it carries a slightly negative, "trying too hard" tone.
Word Forms
more mannered comparative, most mannered superlative
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Critics found his acting overly _____ and stiff.