# disobedience

/ˌdɪsəˈbidiəns/ (US) · /dˌɪsəʊbˈiːdiəns/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disobedience
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the act of refusing to do what you are told by someone in power. It means breaking a rule or law on purpose.

For teachers: the failure or refusal to obey rules, laws, or someone in authority. Often used in political or social contexts to describe non-violent protest.

## Examples

- The student faced punishment for his disobedience in class.
- Civil disobedience remains a powerful tool for activists seeking to change unjust laws through peaceful resistance.
- The general warned that any further acts of disobedience among the ranks would be met with immediate court-martial to maintain military discipline.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with the adjective 'civil' or the preposition 'to' ('disobedience to the law').

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