defies
word · lemma: defy
Definition
To openly resist or refuse to obey something or someone, often challenging authority or expectations.
Usage & Nuances
'Defies' is formal and dramatic, often used with rules, orders, logic, or gravity ('defies gravity'). Frequently used to highlight courage or stubbornness. Common collocations: 'defies explanation', 'defies belief'. Distinct from simply 'disobeys', as it usually implies a bold or public challenge.
Spanish: desafía - resistePortuguese (BR): desafia - resistePortuguese (PT): desafia - resisteChinese (Simplified): 反抗 - 蔑视 - 公然违抗Chinese (Traditional): 反抗 - 蔑視 - 公然違抗Hindi: अवज्ञा करता है - चुनौती देता हैArabic: يتحدى - يعصيBengali: উলঙ্ঘন করে - অবজ্ঞা করেRussian: бросает вызов - противитсяJapanese: 反抗する - 挑むVietnamese: thách thức - chống lạiKorean: 도전하다 - 거역하다Turkish: meydan okumak - karşı gelmekUrdu: سرکشی کرنا - چیلنج کرناIndonesian: thách thức - chống lại
Example Sentences
She defies her parents by staying out late.
basic
This student often defies the school rules.
basic
Gravity defies explanation at times.
basic
He always defies easy categorization—he's unique.
natural
Her courage defies belief; she never gives up.
natural
That old bridge defies time—it's still standing after a hundred years.
natural