defy restrictions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defy restrictions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions or behaviors that go against established rules or limitations. Example: "The artist chose to defy restrictions imposed by traditional art forms, creating a unique style that challenged conventions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Near Fort Hood, Detective Brank of the Killeen police said soldiers continued to defy restrictions to the base.

The New York Times

British police have sought to prosecute those that defy restrictions on the flying machines, such as sending them too near airports or over highly-populated areas.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Members of the political opposition and civic groups defied restrictions on gatherings of more than five people without a permit and rallied for changes in an election system they said unfairly favored the governing coalition, which has been in power since Malaysia achieved independence in 1957.

The New York Times

From the moment she volunteers for Prim to the moment she shoots and destroys the Capitol's carefully crafted force field (a thing no other tribute would dare to do), Katniss defies restrictions, openly scorns the Capitol's control and makes no attempt to hide her utter contempt for them.

The Guardian

Despite fear of reprisals, millions of Iranian women, defy the restrictions on a daily basis by pushing at the boundaries.

The Guardian

It was the protest leaders who were talking tough on Tuesday, declaring that they would defy government restrictions and march where they wanted to.

The New York Times

Legal observers and medical volunteers were among around 50 people arrested in Baltimore on Saturday night, as another evening of protests over the death of Freddie Gray ended in yet more clashes as protesters attempted to defy curfew restrictions.

The Guardian

That familiarity helps explain the shrewd authenticity of the scenes between Ana and the play's two other nanny characters, as they mock their employers, dissect their idiosyncrasies and defy food restrictions they find foolish.

The New York Times

On September 2nd, 1945 Australian reporter Wilfred Burchett took a morning train from Tokyo to Hiroshima, one of only two journalists to defy travel restrictions.

Huffington Post

A powerful story about Iranian women using social media to defy government restrictions on dress has gone viral this week, highlighting the importance of personal choice when it comes to the issue of hijab.

Huffington Post

Nedemus Grandage (@Retrograder25) @AndrewSparrow Must be Alex Lyon, Min of State,mid-'70s, who defied immigration restrictions.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defy restrictions", ensure the context clearly indicates what restrictions are being defied and the reasons behind the defiance. This adds depth and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "defy restrictions" without specifying the type of restrictions. Vague usage can weaken the impact of your message. Always provide context to make the defiance meaningful to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defy restrictions" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of resisting or opposing established rules, limits, or regulations. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where individuals or groups actively go against imposed limitations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

The New York Times

5%

BBC

5%

The Guardian

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defy restrictions" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, typically functioning as a verb phrase to describe actions that resist or oppose established rules or limitations. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is used in various contexts, with a neutral register, although more common in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the restrictions being defied. Alternatives include "disobey regulations", "challenge limitations", and "resist constraints", each with slightly different nuances. Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the most appropriate phrase for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disobey regulations

Implies a direct violation of rules or laws.

flout the rules

Suggests openly disregarding rules or conventions.

challenge limitations

Focuses on questioning or pushing against existing limits.

resist constraints

Highlights the act of opposing or withstanding limitations.

circumvent regulations

Implies finding a way around rules without directly breaking them.

overcome obstacles

Focuses on successfully dealing with difficulties or barriers.

transgress boundaries

Suggests exceeding accepted limits or norms.

disregard guidelines

Implies ignoring or paying no attention to recommended practices.

push against norms

Emphasizes challenging established societal expectations.

act in defiance of limitations

A more formal way of expressing resistance to restrictions.

FAQs

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

You can use "defy restrictions" to describe actions that go against established rules or limitations. For example, "The protesters chose to "defy restrictions" on public gatherings."

What are some alternatives to "defy restrictions"?

Some alternatives to "defy restrictions" include "disobey regulations", "challenge limitations", or "resist constraints", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "defy restrictions" or "ignore restrictions"?

"Defy restrictions" implies a more active and deliberate opposition, while "ignore restrictions" suggests a passive lack of attention. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize resistance or neglect.

What kind of actions typically "defy restrictions"?

Actions that "defy restrictions" can range from political protests and acts of civil disobedience to creative endeavors that challenge artistic conventions and personal choices that go against societal norms.