he obeys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'he obeys' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone is compliant to a request, rule, law, or order. For example, "He always obeys his parent's rules."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

He obeys.

The New Yorker

He obeys and narrowly avoids being caught.

The New York Times

Maybe he obeys and maybe he doesn't.

The New York Times - Sports

I scream it, and he obeys.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He gives people simple orders and he obeys simple orders.

The New Yorker

The one where I give him an order and he obeys it?" "Docilryde™," Verlaine said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

He obeyed.

The Guardian

Somewhat quizzically, he obeyed.

The Economist

But he obeyed.

The New York Times

"He obeyed his orders.

The New York Times

He obeyed his directions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he obeys", ensure the context clearly identifies what or whom he is obeying to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "he obeys the law" or "he obeys his superior officer".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "he obeys" always implies a positive connotation. Obedience can be to unethical commands, so ensure the context reflects the desired moral implication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he obeys" typically functions as a verb phrase, where "he" is the subject and "obeys" is the main verb. It indicates an action performed by the subject, showing compliance or adherence to a command, law, or authority. Ludwig AI confirms this with multiple examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he obeys" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that signifies compliance with a rule, command, or authority. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. It's most commonly found in News & Media sources, and less so in more formal or scientific contexts. When using "he obeys", be mindful of the potential moral implications and ensure clarity regarding what or whom the subject is obeying. Related phrases such as "he complies" or "he follows orders" can provide alternative ways to express the same concept with subtle differences in formality or emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he complies

This alternative emphasizes adherence to rules or requests; it's more formal than "he obeys".

he follows orders

This phrase specifically refers to obeying instructions given by someone in a position of authority.

he adheres to the rules

This alternative highlights sticking to established regulations or guidelines.

he submits

This option suggests a more complete and possibly reluctant acceptance of authority.

he is compliant

This adjective phrase describes his general characteristic of obeying.

he carries out instructions

This alternative focuses on the performance of specific directions.

he is subservient

This phrase implies a willingness to obey even to the point of being subordinate.

he minds

A shorter, more casual term implying he pays attention to and follows directions.

he fulfills

This suggests that "he" is carrying out a duty or responsibility, not just following commands.

he respects authority

This option showcases deference and acceptance of someone's power.

FAQs

How can I use "he obeys" in a sentence?

You can use "he obeys" to indicate compliance with a command, rule, or law. For example, "He obeys the traffic signals" or "He obeys his parents' instructions".

What can I say instead of "he obeys"?

You can use alternatives like "he complies", "he follows orders", or "he adheres to the rules" depending on the specific context.

Is it always a positive thing when someone obeys?

Not necessarily. While obedience is often seen as a virtue, it depends on what or whom someone is obeying. Obedience to unjust laws or unethical commands can have negative consequences.

What's the difference between "he obeys" and "he controls"?

"He obeys" implies submission to an external authority or rule, whereas "he controls" suggests exerting power or influence over something or someone else. They represent opposite actions.