obedience - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obedience Word Meanings
- the act of following orders or rules
- compliance with someone's requests
- the state of being submissive to authority
obedience Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obedience Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈbiː.dɪ.əns/
US
/əˈbiː.dɪ.əns/
obedience Word Etymology
From Latin 'obedientia' (obeying, compliance), composed of 'ob-' (to, toward) + 'audire' (to hear). Picture a loyal dog listening intently to its owner’s command, ready to follow every instruction.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Obedience is the act of following orders or rules, or complying with someone's requests. It can describe the state of being submissive to authority or simply doing what is asked because it is expected. In everyday life, obedience often walks a fine line between discipline and personal judgment. Many cultures value obedience as a sign of reliability and respect, while others stress autonomy and questioning authority. The word comes from Latin obedientia, explaining its long history in law, religion, and education. Understanding obedience includes recognizing when it is appropriate to follow guidance and when dissent might be healthier or more creative.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use obedience to describe following clear, reasonable instructions
- 2) Distinguish between obedience and blind submission
- 3) Note when authority should be respectfully questioned
- 4) Distinguish obedience from compliance with etiquette or laws
- 5) Practice using collocations like 'show obedience' and 'exhibit obedience'
Common Misconceptions
- Obedience means blind submission without question.
- Obedience is always good or moral irrespective of context.
- Obedience eliminates personal judgment or ethics.
- Only children need obedience; adults can ignore it.
- Obedience is only about following rules, not about how you think or feel.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often separate obedience from personal ethics; learners may equate obedience with virtue and worry about dissent being wrong.
Learning Tips
- Compare obedience with compliance and with independence
- Notice connotations in different contexts
- Practice forming sentences about following guidance
- Read examples from different cultures
- Create personal examples to test comfort with dissent
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'obedience'?
A.Lack of respect
B.Excitement
C.Compliance
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'obedience' correctly?
A.The cat showed obedience by talking back to its owner.
B.The student displayed obedience by following the teacher's instructions.
C.The dog's disobedience pleased its owner.
D.The child's obedience led to a messy room.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'obedience'?
A.Conformity
B.Defiance
C.Independence
D.Rebellion
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'obedience'?
A.Resistance
B.Submission
C.Disobedience
D.Adherence
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving obedience?
A.Ignoring all rules and regulations
B.Following traffic rules while driving
C.Rebelling against authority figures
D.Being careless and irresponsible
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