What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
uncomplying
Example
The uncomplying employee refused to follow the company's safety protocols. [uncomplying: adjective]
Example
She was uncomplying with her parents' wishes to attend college. [uncomplying: present participle]
defiant
Example
The defiant student refused to follow the teacher's instructions. [defiant: adjective]
Example
He was defiant in the face of unjust laws and continued to protest. [defiant: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Defiant is more commonly used than uncomplying in everyday language. Defiant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while uncomplying is less common and may be considered outdated or formal in some contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between uncomplying and defiant?
Uncomplying is typically associated with a formal tone, while defiant can be employed in both formal and informal contexts. However, defiant may have a negative connotation in some formal settings.