obey - Master This Word

obey Word Meanings

• to follow the commands of someone
• to act according to a rule or law
• to comply with requests or wishes

obey Example Sentences

Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.

• I will obey the rules.
• Children must obey their parents.
• You should obey the signs.
• Dogs can obey simple commands.
• It's good to obey your teacher.

obey Word Etymology

obey = ob- (against) + ey (to go, to be), historical origin from Latin 'obedire' (to hear) → Old French 'obeir' → English. Picture a soldier standing at attention, ready to follow orders without hesitation.

English Brain Route

I take a small step, then set my shoulders and settle into listening. When the supervisor speaks, I move closer and pull my attention toward the words. It feels like a light push, a careful adjustment, a decision to follow what is asked. In real life, I keep my focus on the request and let my actions align with it.

Real Context

Obey is a verb meaning to follow commands, rules, or wishes from someone with authority. It can describe following a law, a supervisor’s instructions, or a request framed as a favor. The sense is generally neutral to positive when it implies discipline, duty, or reliability, but it can be critical when someone refuses to comply. The etymology traces back to Latin obedire “to listen” and to Old French obeir, conveying the idea of listening in order to act accordingly. In everyday use, we often pair obey with phrases like obey the law, obey orders, or obey your parents, emphasizing practical compliance.

Usage Reminders

• Obey is used with commands, laws, and formal requests.
• Reserve 'obey' for authority figures, not casual suggestions.
• Common collocations: obey the law, obey orders, obey your parents.
• Do not confuse with 'comply' in formal contexts.
• Think of listening and acting on what you hear.

Common Misconceptions

• Obey does not mean you must always agree with the other person; it means you follow their command or rule.
• Obey is not the same as 'agree'; you can disagree but still comply.
• Obey is not limited to laws; it covers rules and formal requests too.
• Obey does not imply passivity; it often requires action after listening.
• You can obey without liking the instruction.

Thinking Differences

English speakers often distinguish obey from follow; obey implies listening to commands from authority and acting on them, whereas follow is broader and can refer to guidelines you freely choose to track.

Learning Tips

• Link obey to the idea of listening and acting on commands.
• Differentiate obey from follow (authority vs guidance).
• Use common collocations to memorize: obey the law, obey orders, obey your parents.
• Practice both formal and informal contexts to feel the tone difference.
• Notice that obey often pairs with a direct object (the law, orders).
• Create your own situational sentences to solidify usage.

5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English

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