defiance towards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'defiance towards' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is showing an attitude or behavior that is resistant to something or someone. For example, "His defiance towards authority made him a poor fit for the military".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Yet the show of defiance towards the West has suited both sides.

The Economist

His presence in Sikkim was in itself a measured gesture of Indian defiance towards China.

The Economist

This, more than anything else, signals their defiance towards a civilization that seeks to annihilate them.

The Guardian - Books

But for most we spoke to, anger and defiance towards the government trumped their fear.

The Guardian - Opinion

This summer's sham negotiations have caused many Europeans to retreat into nationalism and express defiance towards international institutions.

The Guardian

President Assad's defiance towards the international community and the two-month-old UN resolution to allow in humanitarian aid continues, with only 11% of aid getting through.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

However, when Black athletes choose to point their defiance not towards each other but to systematic inequalities, that's when the backlash begins.

Huffington Post

Never again!" High up on the Green Fields, where the beats on the Pyramid stage are a distant thud-thud for those wanting to escape the madness, the lower camping classes breathed defiance and indifference towards the privileged caste.

The Guardian - Music

This recounts the heroic defiance of the Croats towards the Turks, as a metaphor for their later nationalist impulses within the Habsburg monarchy.

Wikipedia

While many artists of our generation gear themselves towards technological defiance (though their thousands of social media followers would prove otherwise), Canada-born, Brooklyn-dwelling artist, Krista Kim, is using the advancements in our age to her artistic benefit.

Huffington Post

7 November 1975: As Franco lies on his deathbed his appointed successor, the Crown Prince Juan Carlos, sets about the difficult process of steering Spain back towards democracy in defiance of the dictator's wishes.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defiance towards", ensure the subject displaying the defiance and the object of that defiance are clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "defiance towards" when a simple disagreement or difference of opinion is more appropriate. "Defiance" implies a deliberate and often public act of resistance, not just a private disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defiance towards" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to describe the manner in which someone or something opposes or resists another. It specifies the target of the defiance. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defiance towards" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that conveys direct opposition or resistance. It's frequently found in news and media contexts, reflecting its usefulness in describing acts of resistance against individuals, entities, or systems. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and while alternatives like "opposition to" or "resistance to" exist, "defiance towards" specifically emphasizes the confrontational nature of the act. When using this phrase, clarity in identifying both the defiant subject and the target of defiance is crucial to ensure effective communication. The phrase carries a generally neutral to formal tone, fitting various contexts while avoiding overly casual language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resistance to

Similar to "opposition to", but emphasizes the act of resisting.

opposition to

Replaces "defiance" with a more general term for resistance and simplifies the preposition.

disobedience to

Highlights the refusal to obey or comply with rules or authority.

insubordination to

A more formal term for disobedience, often used in hierarchical contexts.

rebellion against

Suggests a more active and forceful form of opposition.

non-compliance with

A formal term emphasizing failure to adhere to rules or regulations.

challenge to

Implies questioning or disputing something rather than outright defiance.

antagonism toward

Indicates hostility or active opposition.

disregard for

Highlights a lack of attention or respect.

contempt for

Emphasizes a feeling of disdain or disrespect.

FAQs

How can I use "defiance towards" in a sentence?

Use "defiance towards" to show direct opposition. For example, "His "defiance towards" authority led to frequent clashes with his superiors."

What are some alternative phrases to "defiance towards"?

You can use alternatives like "opposition to", "resistance to", or "rebellion against" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "defiance of" or "defiance towards"?

"Defiance of" is more common and generally preferred when referring to a rule or law. "Defiance towards" is used when referring to a person or entity.

What is the difference between "defiance towards" and "disrespect towards"?

"Defiance towards" implies active resistance or disobedience, while "disrespect towards" suggests a lack of politeness or regard. "Defiance towards" is a stronger term that indicates active opposition, unlike mere disrespect.