Disloyalty: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when someone fails to support their country, group, or a person they are supposed to be loyal to.

• Her disloyalty to the team was evident when she shared their strategies with the competitors.
• Disloyalty among the ranks can cause a lot of distrust.

Use in emotional or personal contexts where deep trust was broken, usually involving friends, family, or close relationships.

• His friend's betrayal hurt him deeply.
• The betrayal in her voice was unmistakable as she recounted the story.

Use in more serious or formal contexts to describe acts of deceit or betrayal often involving a violation of allegiance or trust.

• The treachery of the spy was discovered after years of deceit.
• His actions were seen as an act of treachery against the state.

Use when referring to the lack of faith or loyalty, especially in romantic relationships or formal commitments.

• Her faithlessness led to the end of their marriage.
• In the face of such faithlessness, it was hard to maintain trust.

When someone fails to support or remain faithful to a person, group, or cause. Often used in personal or professional relationships.

• Her disloyalty to her best friend was evident when she shared the secret.
• The employee was fired for his disloyalty to the company.

A very serious crime involving betrayal of one's country, typically by aiding enemies or attempting to overthrow the government. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• He was accused of treason for spying for the enemy during wartime.
• Committing treason is punishable by death in many countries.

A more serious and active form of resistance or defiance, often involving a group opposing authority, particularly in a political or social context.

• The rebellion against the dictator gained widespread support.
• Teenage rebellion is common as young people seek independence.

When someone disagrees with or resists something or someone, typically in a formal or political context. It's less severe than rebellion or treason.

• There is strong opposition to the new law among the citizens.
• The opposition party criticized the government's policies.