Words / C1

di-FEYE/dɪˈfaɪ/

To defy is to refuse to obey, or to be so extreme that something seems impossible: defy the ban, defy belief, defy explanation. Disobey is everyday for rules; challenge is wider. Denial is saying something is untrue (deny). Do not mix defy with deny. Defy gravity is a set image; use it sparingly.

Meaning

To refuse to obey, or to be so extreme that something seems impossible (defy belief).

Examples

• “The figures defy the official explanation.”
• “The figures defy the official story, which is the “seem impossible” sense.”
• “Cyclists who defy the lights are not making a philosophical point.”

Good to know

Refuse to obey; or seem impossible (defy belief). Everyday: disobey. Mix-up: deny (say it is untrue).

Near in meaning

disobey

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