Definition of Defy
Quick Meaning of Defy
To refuse to obey, to resist openly, or to stand up against something or someone with courage. It shows strong opposition without backing down.
Detailed Definition of Defy
To openly resist or refuse to obey someone or something; to challenge someone in an audacious way; to resist successfully.
How to Pronounce Defy
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: dih-FY. The 'y' at the end sounds like 'eye'.
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (DE-fy) instead of the second. Correct: dih-FY.
Origin and Etymology of Defy
From Old French 'defier' (to renounce). 'De-' means 'away from' + 'fier' means 'to entrust/pledge'. Entered English in 14th century with sense of challenging or refusing.
How to Use Defy in a Sentence
Each example shows “defy” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The activist defied the government ban and continued organizing protests.”
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“She defied expectations by becoming a successful engineer despite societal pressure.”
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“The ancient fortress defied all attempts at conquest for centuries.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Defy
Common Synonyms for Defy
Smart Synonyms for Defy — When to Use Each
- resist
- More general; can be passive or active opposition
- disobey
- Emphasizes failure to follow orders or rules
- challenge
- More confrontational; openly questioning or questioning authority
Common Collocations with Defy
These phrases pair with “defy” in everyday English:
- defy authority
- defy expectations
- defy the law
- defy attempts
- defy logic
Common Mistakes When Using Defy
Even fluent speakers slip up with “defy”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He defied to the rules.
- ✓ Correct: He defied the rules. / He defied authority.
- Why: 'Defy' is transitive and takes a direct object. Don't use 'to' after it.
- ✗ Wrong: The structure defies to fall down.
- ✓ Correct: The structure defies collapse. / The structure resists falling.
- Why: Use 'defy' + noun, not 'defy to' + verb.
- ✗ Wrong: She defied from the group.
- ✓ Correct: She defied the group's wishes. / She separated from the group.
- Why: 'Defy' doesn't use 'from'. Use a direct object (noun) or choose a different verb.
Other Forms of Defy
Frequently Asked Questions About Defy
What is the meaning of "Defy"?
To refuse to obey, to resist openly, or to stand up against something or someone with courage. It shows strong opposition without backing down.
How do you pronounce "Defy"?
The IPA is /dɪˈfaɪ/. Stress the second syllable: dih-FY. The 'y' at the end sounds like 'eye'.
What part of speech is "Defy"?
"Defy" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Defy"?
Common synonyms include resist, disobey, challenge.
How do you use "Defy" in a sentence?
For example: "The activist defied the government ban and continued organizing protests."