Disobediently: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when someone is not following rules or instructions in a general sense. It doesn't necessarily carry a strong negative connotation but indicates a lack of compliance.

• The child looked at his mother disobediently and refused to go to bed.
• She acted disobediently by ignoring the school regulations.

Use this word when referring to someone who is resisting control or convention, often in a broader societal or cultural context. It can carry a sense of youthful defiance or nonconformity.

• Teenagers often behave rebelliously to assert their independence.
• He dressed rebelliously to challenge the school's dress code.

This word is best used when someone is openly resisting or challenging authority or rules with a sense of boldness or confrontation. It has a stronger tone than 'disobediently'.

• He stood defiantly before the teacher, refusing to apologize.
• She crossed her arms defiantly and proclaimed she would not follow the new policy.

This word is most appropriate in a professional or hierarchical context where someone is not showing the expected obedience to authority figures. It has a negative implication and is often used in formal situations.

• The employee spoke insubordinately to his manager during the meeting.
• She was reprimanded for acting insubordinately towards her superior.