defy conventions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defy conventions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions, behaviors, or ideas that challenge or go against established norms or traditional practices. Example: "The artist chose to defy conventions by using unconventional materials in her sculpture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

How did some passengers defy conventions in the emergency?

The New York Times

She did not defy conventions; she worked feverishly within them.

The New York Times - Books

In order to defy conventions of this kind, Quinn has done two things.

Independent

This diligent midlife appraisal charts his direction, and suggests he will continue to defy conventions.

The New York Times - Books

As an organisation that campaigns for co-operatives – which constantly defy conventions – we know better than most what it is to go against the norm.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Flaming Lips continue to defy conventions with a full-length companion album that they claim is designed to be played at the same time as Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But some nominations for the Golden Globe Awards next Sunday defy convention.

The New York Times

It's inspiring to see how many of you aren't afraid to defy convention.

The New Yorker

But that stance showed personality, a willingness to defy convention — and it worked.

The New York Times - Sports

"Rock hair is meant to defy convention, free you from the 9 to 5.

The New York Times

He said she was distinguished by "the longing and striving to defy convention, to defy what people accept".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defy conventions", ensure that the context clearly indicates which specific conventions are being challenged and why. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "defy conventions" repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "challenge norms" or "break traditions" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defy conventions" functions as a verb phrase, where "defy" is a transitive verb and "conventions" is its direct object. It describes the act of opposing or resisting established norms or practices. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defy conventions" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of opposing or challenging established norms. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, the phrase carries a neutral to professional tone. Alternatives like "challenge norms" or "break traditions" offer nuanced options for varied writing. While the phrase is generally well-regarded, overuse should be avoided to maintain reader engagement, with considerations of context in mind.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenge norms

Focuses on the act of questioning and contesting established standards of behavior or thought.

break traditions

Emphasizes the act of departing from long-established customs and practices.

rebel against customs

Highlights the act of actively opposing or resisting traditional practices and social behaviors.

transgress norms

Implies going beyond or violating the boundaries of accepted standards.

reject the status quo

Focuses on the act of refusing to accept the current state of affairs and seeking change.

go against the grain

Emphasizes acting in a way that is contrary to the prevailing opinion or trend.

flout the rules

Focuses on openly disregarding or disobeying established rules and regulations.

challenge the orthodoxy

Highlights the act of questioning or disputing established beliefs or doctrines.

disrupt established patterns

Emphasizes the act of interrupting or disturbing typical or expected routines.

subvert expectations

Focuses on overturning or undermining anticipated outcomes or assumptions.

FAQs

How can I use "defy conventions" in a sentence?

You can use "defy conventions" to describe actions or ideas that go against established norms, such as, "The artist chose to "defy conventions" by using unconventional materials."

What's the difference between "defy conventions" and "challenge norms"?

"Defy conventions" implies a more active resistance or rebellion against established practices, while "challenge norms" suggests questioning or disputing them.

What can I say instead of "defy conventions"?

You can use alternatives like "challenge norms", "break traditions", or "rebel against customs" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always positive to "defy conventions"?

Not necessarily. Whether "defying conventions" is positive or negative depends on the specific context and the impact of challenging those norms. It can lead to progress, but also to disruption.