What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
indiscipline
Example
The teacher had trouble controlling the class due to their indiscipline. [indiscipline: noun]
Example
The company had to take disciplinary action against the employee for their indiscipline at work. [indiscipline: adjective]
insubordination
Example
The soldier was punished for insubordination after disobeying a direct order from their commanding officer. [insubordination: noun]
Example
The manager had to take action against the employee for their insubordinate behavior towards their supervisor. [insubordinate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indiscipline is a more common word than insubordination in everyday language. Indiscipline is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while insubordination is more specific to workplace or military settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between indiscipline and insubordination?
Both indiscipline and insubordination are formal words that are typically used in professional or serious contexts. However, insubordination is more formal and specific to workplace or military settings.