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Disobey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disobey

[ˌdɪs.əˈbeɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a formal setting

Fail to obey (a rule, law, or someone in authority).

Synonyms

defy, disregard, ignore.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disobey

Use this word when someone does not follow rules, instructions, or commands from a person in authority.

  • The child chose to disobey his teacher's instructions
  • Employees who disobey company policies may face consequences
defy

This word is appropriate when someone openly resists or confronts authority or a powerful opponent.

  • The protesters decided to defy the new law
  • She defied her parents by staying out late
disregard

Use this when someone pays no attention to a rule, instruction, or important fact, often deliberately.

  • He disregarded the warning signs and continued driving
  • The company chose to disregard environmental regulations
ignore

This word is suitable when someone deliberately does not notice or acknowledge something or someone.

  • She chose to ignore his rude comments
  • They decided to ignore the email from the HR department

Examples of usage

  • He was charged with disobeying a lawful order.
  • The soldiers were punished for disobeying their commanding officer.
Context #2 | Verb

in a casual setting

Fail to comply with an instruction or rule.

Synonyms

defy, disregard, ignore.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
disobey

Used when someone does not follow rules, orders, or instructions given by an authority figure, such as a parent, teacher, or law. The context often implies a conscious decision to go against the given directives.

  • The child chose to disobey his mother's instructions and stayed out past his curfew
  • Employees who disobey company policies may face disciplinary actions
defy

Strong term used when someone openly challenges authority or rules. It suggests bold resistance and a deliberate attempt to go against what is expected or ordered.

  • The protesters decided to defy the government's curfew and continue their demonstration
  • She defied her parents by pursuing a career in music despite their objections
disregard

Implies a lack of consideration or attention to rules, instructions, or warnings. It can be intentional or unintentional and often indicates indifference.

  • He showed total disregard for the safety warnings and went into the restricted area
  • The company was fined for disregarding environmental regulations
ignore

Refers to the act of paying no attention to something or someone on purpose. This word can be used in a variety of situations, often in a less formal context.

  • She decided to ignore the negative comments and focus on her work
  • The driver ignored the red light and caused an accident

Examples of usage

  • She always disobeys her mother's advice.
  • The students were warned not to disobey the school rules.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that children often disobey due to developmental stages of autonomy and testing boundaries.
  • Research has shown that the way rules are presented can significantly affect compliance; authoritative versus authoritarian styles make a difference.

Cultural References

  • In many fairy tales, characters who disobey authority figures often face consequences, teaching lessons about obedience.
  • Modern stories and movies frequently portray disobedience as a form of bravery, challenging unfair systems or authority.

Legal Context

  • Disobeying laws can lead to penalties such as fines or community service, depending on the severity of the action.
  • Civil disobedience is a term for intentionally breaking the law to protest against perceived injustice, a practice seen in various historical movements.

Education

  • In the classroom environment, understanding why rules exist can help reduce acts of disobedience among students.
  • Teachers often create structures and incentives to encourage compliance and minimize disobedient behavior.

Origin of 'disobey'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'disobedire,' where 'dis-' means 'opposite of' and 'obedire' means 'to obey.'
  • In Middle English, the term evolved into 'disobeien,' showcasing how language changes over time.

The word 'disobey' originated from the combination of 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'obey' meaning 'to comply with an order, law, or rule'. The concept of disobedience has been present throughout history in various forms, often associated with acts of defiance against authority or societal norms. The act of disobeying can be seen as a form of resistance or protest against perceived injustice or oppression.

See also: disobeying, obedience, obedient, obediently, obey.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,910, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.