What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defying
Example
The protesters were defying the government's orders to disperse. [defying: verb]
Example
Her daring fashion choices were defying the traditional dress code of the event. [defying: gerund or present participle]
disobeying
Example
The child was punished for disobeying his parents' curfew. [disobeying: verb]
Example
She was caught disobeying the company's policies on internet usage. [disobeying: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disobeying is more commonly used than defying in everyday language. Disobeying is a more general term that covers a wider range of situations, while defying is more specific and often used in more serious or confrontational contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between defying and disobeying?
Both defying and disobeying are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
