The Opposite(Antonym) of “obey”
The antonyms of obey are disobey, defy, and rebel against. These antonyms convey a lack of compliance or refusal to follow orders, rules, or authority.
Explore all Antonyms of “obey”
- disobey
- defy
- rebel against
Definitions and Examples of disobey, defy, rebel against
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To refuse to obey or follow a rule, order, or command.
Example
The child was punished for disobeying his parents' instructions.
defy
To openly resist or challenge authority, rules, or expectations.
Example
The protesters decided to defy the government's ban on public gatherings.
Key Differences: disobey vs defy vs rebel against
- 1Disobey is a general term that describes a refusal to follow orders or rules.
- 2Defy is a more specific term that implies open resistance or challenge to authority or expectations.
- 3Rebel against is a relational term that describes opposition or fighting against authority, social norms, or established systems.
Effective Usage of disobey, defy, rebel against
- 1Discipline: Use disobey to describe a lack of compliance or disobedience.
- 2Challenge: Use defy to describe open resistance or opposition to authority or expectations.
- 3Revolution: Use rebel against to describe opposition or fighting against authority, social norms, or established systems.
Remember this!
The antonyms of obey convey a lack of compliance or refusal to follow orders, rules, or authority. Disobey is a general term, defy implies open resistance, and rebel against describes opposition or fighting against authority, social norms, or established systems. Use these words to describe discipline, challenge, and revolution.
