student asking question

Just like this scenario, I've often seen people scolding their pets by calling them "naughty." Can I use the word "naughty" to a person as well?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes, you can. However, it is usually only used with children. It can be considered offensive or condescending to speak of an adult in this way, unless you are close and it is meant in a joking way. Ex: I heard I was very naughty as a child. Ex: My cat is very naughty. She likes knocking things off tables and countertops.

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