defiant stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defiant stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or attitude that is bold, resistant, or challenging, often in the face of opposition or authority. Example: "The protestors took a defiant stance against the new regulations, refusing to back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He has taken a typically defiant stance.

The Economist

Why didn't a single network take a similar defiant stance?

The New York Times

It is an expectedly defiant stance, but his problems show no signs of abating.

Independent

Iran's defiant stance on nuclear power has raised the spectre, however remote, of military action.

The Economist

That defiant stance could soften, given the force of the government's case.

The New York Times

Israeli officials have adopted an almost defiant stance, pointing to legal and ethical commitment to contracts.

The New York Times

But officials here and in other cities where gun restrictions are now being challenged took a defiant stance.

The New York Times

Uber's defiant stance appears to be setting the company on a collision course with California regulators in court.

The Guardian - Tech

27 June Ecuador maintains its defiant stance, renouncing the Andean Trade Preference Act it has with America.

The Guardian

What do you do tomorrow if you can't fit the shoes?" Quatiarra Bonaparte, 14, took a more defiant stance.

The Guardian

What is new and hotly debated is the defiant stance taken by Robert Rabinovitch, the CBC president.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defiant stance" to describe a deliberate and open refusal to comply with expectations or demands. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is being defied.

Common error

Avoid using "defiant stance" in situations that simply require disagreement or difference of opinion. A less charged phrase might be more appropriate if the situation does not involve a challenge to authority or a refusal to comply.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defiant stance" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "defiant" modifies the noun "stance". It describes a particular attitude or position taken in opposition to something. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defiant stance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a resistant and challenging attitude, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase, typically used to report on or characterize opposition, particularly in conflict situations. While its register is generally neutral, it appears most frequently in News & Media contexts. Related phrases include "resistant attitude" and "challenging attitude", offering nuanced variations. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants its strength and avoid overuse in situations where simple disagreement is present.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resistant attitude

Focuses on the general opposition to something.

challenging attitude

Highlights the confrontational nature of the position.

unyielding position

Stresses the firmness and inflexibility of the stance.

uncompromising attitude

Highlights the unwillingness to make concessions.

resistant posture

Emphasizes physical bearing and opposition.

combative posture

Highlights the readiness to fight or argue.

rebellious position

Focuses on active resistance to authority.

obstinate position

Focuses on stubbornness and refusal to change.

aggressive attitude

Emphasizes a forceful and potentially hostile approach.

contentious posture

Emphasizes the likelihood of causing argument or dispute.

FAQs

How can I use "defiant stance" in a sentence?

You can use "defiant stance" to describe someone or something that is resisting authority or opposition. For example, "The protestors took a defiant stance against the government's policies."

What are some alternatives to "defiant stance"?

You can use alternatives like "resistant attitude", "challenging attitude", or "rebellious position" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "defiant stance" and "aggressive stance"?

"Defiant stance" implies resistance or non-compliance, while "aggressive stance" suggests a more forceful and potentially hostile approach. The choice depends on whether the focus is on resistance or active confrontation.

Is "defiant stance" formal or informal?

"Defiant stance" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in news and media reporting than in casual conversation.