What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compliance
Example
The company was in compliance with all safety regulations. [compliance: noun]
Example
She complied with her boss's request to work overtime. [complied: verb]
obedience
Example
The soldier showed obedience to his commanding officer. [obedience: noun]
Example
The dog obeyed its owner's command to sit. [obeyed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compliance is more commonly used than obedience in everyday language. Compliance is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while obedience is more specific and often associated with formal or religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compliance and obedience?
Obedience is generally considered more formal and associated with religious or hierarchical contexts, while compliance can be used in both formal and informal contexts.