statement of defiance

USAGE SUMMARY

"statement of defiance" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used when referring to a person or group of people who are standing up for something they believe in against an opposing force. For example: "The young demonstrators risked arrest to make a statement of defiance against oppressive laws."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

For others, flying was a statement of defiance.

The New York Times

On stage in Stockholm tonight, the song becomes something altogether more optimistic: a statement of defiance.

The Guardian - Music

Truss's little book (scarcely 200 pages) was a statement of defiance in a complex and troubling cultural landscape.

The Guardian - Books

But, in Pavlensky's mind, his action was less a helpless cry of anguish than an aggressive statement of defiance.

The Guardian - Arts

From the wife of a billionaire oligarch (Igor Kesaev, who made his fortune in tobacco), this can be considered a statement of defiance.

The New York Times - Arts

This was, he explained, a statement of defiance, not a declaration of identity, but it hardly quelled the curiosity about his personal life.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The artists' biographies that hang alongside their works read like a cross between job applications and statements of defiance.

The New York Times

Even with their statements of defiance, union leaders were not certain whether workers at two other Daewoo Motor plants would join in the strike.

The New York Times

Since he fled, Mr. Bakiyev had issued statements of defiance from Kyrgyzstan's south, but his exact whereabouts had been a mystery until Sunday, when news of his presence here spread.

The New York Times

Even before his broadcast began, Islamic militant groups cited in his crackdown, including the two accused by New Delhi in the Dec. 13 attack on India's Parliament, issued statements of defiance.

The New York Times

Some leaders of banned groups have escaped arrest and issued statements of defiance, saying that their organizations will continue underground or under new names and that the holy war in Kashmir will not be deterred.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "statement of defiance" when you want to emphasize a clear and direct expression of resistance against an opposing force or authority.

Common error

Avoid using "statement of defiance" in situations where a simpler term like "protest" or "resistance" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "statement of defiance" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of expression that communicates resistance or opposition. Ludwig examples show it describing actions, messages, and symbolic gestures. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "statement of defiance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in news and media. According to Ludwig, it accurately describes a clear expression of resistance. While the phrase is suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to academic writing, it's crucial to avoid overuse and maintain a tone appropriate for the specific context. Alternative phrases like "gesture of defiance" or "act of rebellion" can provide nuanced variations. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and can be used in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gesture of defiance

Implies a symbolic act of resistance.

expression of resistance

Focuses on the act of resisting, rather than the declaration.

rebellious act

Similar to act of rebellion, but slightly stronger in tone.

act of rebellion

Highlights the rebellious nature of the action.

unsubmissive remark

Highlights resistance with words in place of action.

show of opposition

Emphasizes the act of showing disagreement.

challenge to authority

Highlights the questioning of power.

insurgent declaration

Highlights the revolutionary spirit and rebellious declaration.

declaration of independence

Suggests a break from authority or control.

non-compliant announcement

Emphasizes the act of not following rules or orders.

FAQs

What does "statement of defiance" mean?

A "statement of defiance" is a clear and often public expression of resistance or opposition to authority, rules, or expectations. It indicates a refusal to comply or submit.

How can I use "statement of defiance" in a sentence?

You can use "statement of defiance" to describe actions, words, or symbols that express rebellion or resistance. For example, "The graffiti on the wall was a bold statement of defiance against the government."

What are some synonyms for "statement of defiance"?

Alternatives include "expression of resistance", "act of rebellion", or "gesture of defiance" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "statement of defiance" in formal writing?

Yes, "statement of defiance" can be used in formal writing, especially when describing political or social resistance. However, consider the tone and context to ensure it aligns with the overall message.