obeyed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obeyed Word Meanings
- to follow the commands of someone
- to act according to a rule or law
- to comply with requests or wishes
obeyed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obeyed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈbeɪ/
US
/oʊˈbeɪ/
obeyed 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.
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 InputEnglish 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
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'obeyed' mean?
A.To follow a command
B.To ignore instructions
C.To create something
D.To give advice
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correctly used sentence with 'obeyed'.
A.They obeyed the party invitations and didn’t go.
B.He obeyed his friend by ignoring his problems.
C.She obeyed the traffic rules and was very careful.
D.The students obeyed their disbelief and questioned nothing.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'obeyed'?
A.Disregarded
B.Resisted
C.Followed
D.Ignored
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'obeyed'?
A.Followed
B.Complied
C.Defied
D.Accepted
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone is expected to demonstrate obedience?
A.The dog barked loudly at visitors.
B.A child followed the rules of their parent.
C.A teacher gave instructions to the students.
D.He questioned the authority in silence.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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