obeying authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obeying authority" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts discussing compliance, rules, or social behavior. Example: "The children were praised for obeying authority during the school assembly." Alternative expressions include "following orders" and "submitting to authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

In church, Mr. Romney frequently spoke about obeying authority, the danger of rationalizing misbehavior and God's fixed standards.

The New York Times

He has no truck with the idea, for example, that the Confucian tradition is essentially about obeying authority.

The New Yorker

Growing up is a complicated task that involves learning societal norms and obeying authority figures while trying to discover your true self.

The New York Times

More ominous than such antics is the willingness of young people to confront the police, a new phenomenon in a society that puts a premium on obeying authority.

The New York Times

Page C3 BOND DEFIES CRITICS WITH A RECORD In "Quantum of Solace," James Bond possesses an extreme distaste for obeying authority.

The New York Times

Under the influence of the philosopher Kant, the Germans who built central Berlin as an off-white replica of Athens believed all freedom came from obeying authority.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

For example, the traditional values of obeying authorities and upholding unity are contrary to the goal of establishing a unique and democratic relationship between a teacher and each individual child.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

Why do individuals obey authority?

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In Rwandan history, everyone obeys authority.

The New Yorker

Chinese are taught to obey authority and are often loath to disagree with their bosses.

The New York Times

"It is the majority who conform, who comply, who obey authority," Dr. Zimbardo says.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obeying authority" when discussing the act of following rules, directives, or the commands of individuals in positions of power. It's suitable for formal and neutral contexts.

Common error

While "obeying authority" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "following the rules" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obeying authority" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun. It is often the subject or object of a verb, describing the act of compliance or submission. As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase is deemed correct and appears in various grammatical structures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obeying authority" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes the act of following rules or commands. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts. While it is most frequently found in news and media, it also appears in scientific and encyclopedic sources. When writing, consider using simpler alternatives like "following orders" in informal settings. The phrase is appropriate for discussing compliance, legal systems, and hierarchical structures, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following orders

Focuses specifically on adhering to instructions from a superior.

submitting to authority

Emphasizes the act of yielding or surrendering to a power or control.

complying with regulations

Highlights adherence to a set of rules or laws.

adhering to directives

Focuses on sticking to specific guidelines or instructions.

respecting authority

Implies a sense of deference and recognition of legitimate power.

bowing to power

Suggests a more submissive or even forced compliance.

giving allegiance to

Indicates loyalty and commitment to a leader or cause.

being subordinate to

Highlights a hierarchical relationship of lower rank.

heeding commands

Focuses on listening to and acting upon specific instructions.

observing rules

Implies a conscious effort to follow established guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "obeying authority" in a sentence?

You can use "obeying authority" to describe actions that involve following rules, orders, or the directives of people in charge. For example: "The success of the mission depended on everyone "obeying authority" without question."

What are some alternatives to "obeying authority"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "following orders", "submitting to authority", or "complying with regulations".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "obeying authority"?

The phrase "obeying authority" is suitable for formal discussions, academic papers, and news reports. It's especially useful when discussing social structures, legal systems, or hierarchical organizations.

What's the difference between "obeying authority" and "respecting authority"?

"Obeying authority" implies a direct action of compliance, whereas "respecting authority" suggests a more general attitude of deference and acknowledgment of legitimacy. You can "respect authority" without always "obeying authority" unconditionally, and vice versa.