Defy Meaning in English
word
/dɪˈfaɪ/
di-FY
/dɪfˈaɪ/
di-FY
Definition
To refuse to obey, accept, or follow something such as rules, authority, or expectations; to openly resist or challenge.
Usage & Nuances
'Defy' is somewhat formal and often deals with authority or expectations. Collocations: 'defy the odds', 'defy gravity', 'defy orders'. Typically carries a sense of bold resistance, sometimes with admiration. Not the same as just ignoring—often public and deliberate.
Spanish: desafiar - resistirPortuguese (BR): desafiar - resistirPortuguese (PT): desafiar - resistirChinese (Simplified): 违抗 - 藐视 (挑战权威)Chinese (Traditional): 違抗 - 藐視 (挑戰權威)Hindi: अवहेलना करना - विरोध करनाArabic: يتحدى - يعصيBengali: অবজ্ঞা করা - تحدি করাRussian: бросать вызов - противостоятьJapanese: 逆らう - 挑むVietnamese: thách thức - chống lạiKorean: 도전하다 - 반항하다Turkish: meydan okumak - karşı gelmekUrdu: چیلنج کرنا - مخالفت کرناIndonesian: menentang - membangkang
Example Sentences
She defied her parents by staying out late.
basic
The small boat defied the big waves and reached the shore safely.
basic
Some artists defy traditional styles.
basic
He likes to defy expectations and surprise everyone.
natural
Their courage seemed to defy logic given the danger.
natural
Sometimes you have to defy the rules to make a real change.
natural