defiance of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'defiance of authority' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to acts of disobedience or resistance to someone in a position of authority. For example, "The students' defiance of authority proved costly when they were punished for their actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Some suggest that this is a self-destructive expression of defiance of authority and the French state.

The Economist

Modern means of communication, Kiarostami suggests, are providing ever-new subterfuges for those who would love in defiance of authority.

The New Yorker

It also cast interesting light on how individuals entrapped in welfare dependency divert energy they should use to take responsibility for themselves into a braggardly defiance of authority.

Independent

Here the scale of her defiance of authority is literally and symbolically enlarged by the Wilsons; it assumes the grandeur of the epic.

Independent

While his success made him one of the foremost coaches of his generation, Knight became just as well known for his temper and his defiance of authority.

The New York Times - Sports

Opium growing is encouraged by Afghanistan's rugged, often remote terrain and a long-running civil war that has bred lawlessness and defiance of authority.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Xie's legal team decided to release the explosive and highly detailed transcript of their conversations with him last week – in defiance of authorities – in protest at the refusal to set their client free.

The Guardian

In China, Tibetan communities have been marking the birthday since the Tibetan New Year in February, in defiance of authorities.

Los Angeles Times

It's a defiance of legal authority.

The New York Times

Under the pseudonym of Petrus Aurelius, Duvergier attacked the Jesuits' precarious utilitarianism and their defiance of episcopal authority.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bishop Charles E. Bennison Jr. of Philadelphia attended the service, though he has called the bishops' defiance of church authority a "canonical crisis".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "defiance of authority", clearly specify the context and the specific authority being defied to avoid ambiguity. For example, "defiance of parental authority" or "defiance of government regulations".

Common error

Avoid using "defiance of authority" in vague or undefined situations. Always provide enough context to make it clear who or what is being defied. Instead of saying "his defiance of authority was shocking", specify "his defiance of the school principal's orders was shocking".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defiance of authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase accurately describes actions opposing established power. The examples from Ludwig illustrate this use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

11%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defiance of authority" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe resistance against established power, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is frequently found in news media and academic contexts. While alternatives like ""resistance to authority"" and "rebellion against authority" exist, the key is to provide sufficient context to clarify the specific form and target of the defiance. When using this phrase, consider the potential connotations and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. This phrase allows for the nuanced description of situations where rules or power structures are challenged, opposed, or flouted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resistance to authority

Focuses on the act of resisting, rather than the open disobedience implied by "defiance".

disobedience to authority

Highlights the act of not obeying, suggesting a more direct violation of rules.

rebellion against authority

Implies a larger-scale or more organized form of resistance.

opposition to authority

Focuses on the act of being against or resisting authority.

challenge to authority

Suggests questioning or contesting authority, rather than outright opposition.

insubordination

Refers specifically to the act of disobeying orders within a hierarchical structure.

flouting authority

Implies openly disregarding or mocking authority.

non-compliance

Emphasizes a failure to adhere to rules or regulations.

contempt for authority

Indicates a feeling of scorn or disrespect towards those in power.

violation of authority

Highlights the breaking of rules or laws set by authority.

FAQs

How can I use "defiance of authority" in a sentence?

You can use "defiance of authority" to describe acts of disobedience or resistance against someone or something in a position of power. For example, "The protestors' "resistance to authority" was met with force".

What's the difference between "defiance of authority" and "disobedience to authority"?

"Defiance of authority" often implies a more open and intentional act of resistance, while "disobedience to authority" can be a more general term for failing to follow rules or orders.

What can I say instead of "defiance of authority"?

You can use alternatives like ""resistance to authority"", "rebellion against authority", or "challenge to authority" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "defiance of authority" always negative?

Not necessarily. While it often implies a negative connotation, "defiance of authority" can also be seen as a positive trait in certain contexts, such as when challenging unjust or oppressive systems. The implications are heavily context-dependent.