Insubordinate: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes someone who refuses to follow orders or rules, often in a workplace or military setting. The tone is formal and the word carries a negative connotation.

• The employee was fired for being insubordinate during the meeting.
• Insubordinate behavior will not be tolerated in this organization.

Describes someone who resists authority or control in a more dramatic or consistent manner. Often associated with adolescence or social movements, and can sometimes have a positive or neutral connotation depending on the context.

• She had a rebellious streak in her teenage years.
• The group was known for their rebellious actions against the government.

Applies to someone who openly resists or challenges authority or rules. This word is often used in a more general sense and can apply to many situations, not just formal ones.

• The teenager was defiant when his parents asked him to clean his room.
• She gave her teacher a defiant look and refused to do the assignment.

Refers to someone who does not follow rules or instructions, often used in the context of children or pets. It has a slightly less harsh connotation compared to 'insubordinate' but is still negative.

• The dog was disobedient and wouldn't sit when told.
• His teacher called him disobedient for not following classroom rules.

Use when describing someone who refuses to follow orders or authority, typically in a formal or work environment.

• The insubordinate employee was reprimanded for not following the manager's instructions.

Used when describing someone who shows a lack of respect or courtesy towards others, either in personal or professional settings.

• His disrespectful comments about his teacher were inappropriate.

Ideal for illustrating someone who boldly resists authority or guidance, often in strong, deliberate actions.

• The teenager's defiant attitude worried his parents.

Best for describing someone who is habitually argumentative or oppositional, often in everyday situations.

• She has a contrary nature and always disagrees with whatever is suggested.