What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defiant
Example
The student was defiant when asked to put away their phone during class. [defiant: adjective]
Example
She spoke with a defiant tone, refusing to back down from her position. [defiant: adjective]
rebellious
Example
The rebellious teenager refused to follow curfew and snuck out of the house. [rebellious: adjective]
Example
He had a rebellious streak and often challenged his boss's decisions. [rebellious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Defiant is more commonly used than rebellious in everyday language, and it is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. Rebellious, on the other hand, is more often used in literary or artistic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defiant and rebellious?
Both defiant and rebellious are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation or writing. However, defiant can be used in more formal contexts, such as legal or political language, while rebellious is less likely to be used in formal settings.
