disobey
word
Definition
To refuse or fail to follow rules, instructions, or someone in authority.
Usage & Nuances
Generally used in formal or serious contexts, like children disobeying parents or soldiers disobeying orders. Often followed by 'orders', 'rules', 'laws', or people in authority ('disobey the teacher'). Less common in informal speech. Do not confuse with 'ignore' (means not paying attention).
Spanish: desobedecerPortuguese (BR): desobedecerPortuguese (PT): desobedecerChinese (Simplified): 违抗 - 不服从Chinese (Traditional): 違抗 - 不服從Hindi: आज्ञा न माननाArabic: يعصيBengali: অমান্য করা - অবাধ্য হওয়াRussian: не подчиняться - ослушатьсяJapanese: 従わない - 逆らうVietnamese: không tuân theo - làm trái lệnhKorean: 불복종하다 - 어기다Turkish: itaat etmemek - karşı gelmekUrdu: نافرمانی کرنا - حکم نہ مانناIndonesian: melanggar - tidak mematuhi
Example Sentences
You can't just disobey the law because you don't like it.
natural
The soldier knew it was risky to disobey a direct order.
natural
If you disobey the rules, you might get in trouble.
basic
Children should not disobey their parents.
basic
The dog was punished because it disobeyed its owner.
basic
My little brother loves to disobey me just to get my attention.
natural