disobey
UK: ˌdɪs.əˈbeɪ | US: ˌdɪs.əˈbeɪ
vt. to refuse or fail to follow a command, rule, or authority
vi. to act against a directive or expectation
The word "disobey" combines the prefix "dis-" (from Latin dis-, meaning "apart" or "negation") with the verb "obey" (from Old French obeir, derived from Latin oboedire, "to listen/heed"). The prefix "dis-" flips the meaning of "obey" to its opposite, creating a term for defiance or refusal to comply. This structure reflects a common pattern in English where Latin-derived prefixes modify core verbs to express negation or reversal.
Children who disobey their parents may face consequences.
The soldier refused to disobey his moral principles, even under orders.
Protesters chose to disobey the curfew to demand justice.
It is dangerous to disobey traffic signals while driving.
The software will malfunction if users disobey the installation instructions.