What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defies
Example
The athlete defies the odds and wins the championship. [defies: verb]
Example
Her courage defies description. [defies: verb]
Example
The company defies industry standards with its innovative approach. [defies: verb]
disobey
Example
The child disobeyed his parents and went out without permission. [disobeyed: past tense]
Example
The soldier was punished for disobeying orders. [disobeying: gerund or present participle]
Example
It is important not to disobey traffic laws for your own safety. [disobey: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disobey is more commonly used than defy in everyday language, especially in the context of breaking rules or orders.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defies and disobey?
Both defy and disobey can be used in formal or informal contexts, but defy may be more commonly used in formal writing or speech due to its positive connotation.
