disobey

Disobey is a verb meaning to refuse or fail to comply with a rule, order, or authority. It is typically used to describe action that violates a directive issued by an individual or institution. The object of disobedience is usually a specific rule, law, instruction, or command. The word derives from dis- (apart, away) and obey, and has been part of English since the early modern period. The related noun is disobedience, and the past tense form is disobeyed.

Usage and context include a range from minor infractions to open resistance. Disobey can appear in everyday settings (disobeying school rules), workplace policies, and legal contexts (disobeying a court order). In political life, disobedience may appear under the umbrella of civil disobedience, a nonviolent act intended to protest policies or injustices. While disobeying a rule or law is legally unlawful in many situations, supporters may argue it highlights moral concerns or promotes change; critics emphasize the obligation to follow rules and maintain social order.

Relations and nuances: Disobey differs from defy, which can imply more overt confrontation or challenge. Obedience is the opposite; disobedience denotes a deviation from expected conduct. Common collocations include disobey the rules, disobey orders, and disobey the law. In ethics and law, disobedience is often discussed in terms of the legitimacy of authority, the necessity of the action, and proportionality, as well as the potential consequences for individuals and institutions. Related terms include obedience, noncompliance, and dissent.