What is the difference between obedient and dutiful?

Definitions

obedient

- Describing a person or animal that follows instructions or orders without question.

- Referring to someone who complies with rules, laws, or authority figures.

- Talking about a behavior that is submissive and compliant.

dutiful

- Describing a person who performs their duties or responsibilities conscientiously.

- Referring to someone who is loyal and committed to fulfilling their obligations.

- Talking about a behavior that is respectful and considerate of others' needs.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe positive qualities in a person's behavior.
• 2. Both words imply a willingness to follow rules or instructions.
• 3. Both words suggest a sense of responsibility towards others.
• 4. Both words can be used to describe people or animals.

What is the difference?

• 1. Focus: Obedient emphasizes following orders or instructions, while dutiful focuses on fulfilling responsibilities or obligations.
• 2. Attitude: Obedient implies a more passive and submissive attitude, while dutiful suggests a more active and engaged attitude.
• 3. Motivation: Obedient may imply compliance due to fear or authority, while dutiful suggests a sense of loyalty or commitment.
• 4. Scope: Obedient is often used in a narrower context, such as following specific instructions, while dutiful can refer to a broader range of responsibilities and obligations.
• 5. Connotation: Obedient can have a negative connotation if it implies blind obedience, while dutiful has a more positive connotation of fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities.

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Remember this!

Obedient and dutiful are both positive qualities that describe a person's behavior. However, obedient emphasizes following orders or instructions, while dutiful focuses on fulfilling responsibilities or obligations. Obedient may imply a more passive and submissive attitude, while dutiful suggests a more active and engaged attitude. Additionally, obedient can have a negative connotation if it implies blind obedience, while dutiful has a more positive connotation of fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities.