Disobeying: meaning, definitions and examples

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disobeying

 

[ ˌdɪs.əˈbeɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in a formal setting

Refusing to follow rules or orders, especially in a formal or authoritative context. It involves intentionally disregarding instructions or commands.

Synonyms

defy, disregard, ignore, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disobeying

Used when someone does not follow rules, instructions, or commands from an authority figure.

  • The child was punished for disobeying his parents
  • The soldier faced consequences for disobeying orders
defy

Used to emphasize strong resistance to authority or challenge to something expected, often in a bold or daring way.

  • The protestors decided to defy the curfew imposed by the government
  • She chose to defy the odds and pursue her dreams despite the challenges
disregard

Used when someone pays no attention to or shows little respect for something or someone.

  • He chose to disregard his teacher's advice and failed the exam
  • The company acted with disregard for the safety regulations
ignore

Used when someone deliberately pays no attention to something or someone, often in an intentional or dismissive way.

  • She decided to ignore the rumors being spread about her
  • He ignored the warning signs and continued driving
violate

Used when rules, laws, or rights are broken or infringed upon, often carrying a negative connotation.

  • The company was fined for violating environmental laws
  • Her privacy was violated when her personal information was leaked

Examples of usage

  • He was fired for disobeying direct orders from his supervisor.
  • The student was suspended for disobeying the school rules.
Context #2 | Verb

in a personal relationship

Acting against the wishes or expectations of someone in a personal or intimate relationship.

Synonyms

defy, disregard, oppose, rebel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disobeying

Used when someone is not following commands, rules, or instructions, usually from an authority figure. 'Disobeying' often has a negative connotation.

  • The child was disobeying his parents by not doing his homework.
  • Disobeying the law can lead to serious consequences.
defy

This word is applied when someone openly resists or challenges authority, norms, or expectations. It often suggests courage or boldness.

  • She decided to defy the odds and pursue her dream of becoming an astronaut.
  • The protesters defied the curfew imposed by the government.
oppose

Utilized when someone is actively resisting or standing against something or someone, such as policies, opinions, or initiatives. It suggests a strong disagreement.

  • They oppose the new zoning laws proposed by the city council.
  • Many scientists oppose the use of animals in testing.
rebel

Used when someone is resisting or fighting against authority, control, or tradition, often in a long-lasting or widespread way. 'Rebel' is usually used to describe a more organized or significant form of resistance.

  • Teenagers often rebel against their parents' rules.
  • The citizens began to rebel against the oppressive regime.
disregard

Used when someone is ignoring or paying no attention to rules, warnings, or advice. 'Disregard' can have a more neutral or slightly negative connotation depending on the context.

  • He showed a blatant disregard for safety regulations.
  • The company disregarded the advice of its legal team.

Examples of usage

  • She felt hurt when she realized he was disobeying her wishes.
  • Their marriage suffered due to his continuous disobedience.

Translations

Translations of the word "disobeying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desobedecer

🇮🇳 अवज्ञा करना

🇩🇪 nicht gehorchen

🇮🇩 melanggar

🇺🇦 непокора

🇵🇱 nieposłuszeństwo

🇯🇵 反抗する

🇫🇷 désobéir

🇪🇸 desobedecer

🇹🇷 itaatsizlik etmek

🇰🇷 불복종하다

🇸🇦 عصيان

🇨🇿 neposlouchat

🇸🇰 neposlúchať

🇨🇳 不服从

🇸🇮 neposlušnost

🇮🇸 óhlýðni

🇰🇿 бағынбау

🇬🇪 არასრულება

🇦🇿 itaətsizlik

🇲🇽 desobedecer

Etymology

The word 'disobey' originated from the combination of 'dis-' (meaning 'not' or 'opposite of') and 'obey' (to comply with orders). It has been used in the English language since the 14th century, evolving from Middle English 'disobeien' and Old French 'desobeir'. The concept of disobedience has been prevalent throughout history, often associated with rebellion against authority or defiance of established norms.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,848, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.