Translation guide
The English verb "disobey" means to deliberately not follow a rule, order, or instruction from an authority. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on what is being disobeyed and the relationship. Common expressions range from formal violations of law to casual refusal to listen to a parent.
To intentionally break or violate an established rule, law, or formal regulation.
The most common and neutral way to say "violate" or "disobey" a rule, law, or regulation. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
He disobeyed the traffic rules.
If you disobey the rules, you'll be fined.
Literally "to turn one's back on," implying betrayal or defiance. Often used for disobeying expectations, trust, or moral principles, as well as rules.
Means "to break" and is used for breaking promises, rules, or laws. More casual than 違反する.
To refuse to follow the instructions or orders of a person in authority.
The most natural and common way to say a child or subordinate disobeys. Literally "does not listen to what (someone) says."
The child disobeys their parents.
He disobeyed his boss.
The negative form of 従う (to obey). A direct and somewhat formal way to say "disobey" a person or order.
a soldier who disobeys orders
To go against, defy, or oppose someone's will. Stronger than 従わない, implying active resistance.
To not carry out a direct order or instruction, especially in military or strict hierarchical contexts.
The standard phrase for disobeying orders, especially in military or formal settings.
The soldier who disobeyed orders was punished.
A more direct and slightly less formal way to say "disobey an order."
He disobeyed the order.
Means "to refuse" or "reject." Used when someone actively refuses to obey an order.
He refused to obey the order (disobeyed).
違反する is the most neutral and common for violating rules/laws. 背く implies a betrayal of trust or moral duty, often used in formal/written language. 破る is more casual and often used for breaking promises or rules in daily life.
違反する is only used for rules, laws, or regulations. To say "disobey my mother," use 言うことを聞かない or 逆らう, not 母に違反する.
The most natural way to describe a child disobeying a parent is 言うことを聞かない. 逆らう is stronger and implies defiance, while 従わない sounds formal and is less common in everyday family contexts.
He was punished for disobeying the rules.
My son always disobeys me.
The soldier disobeyed a direct order.
彼は両親に従わなかった。
He disobeyed his parents.
親に逆らうなんて許せない。
I can't forgive you for disobeying your parents.
It's scary to disobey your boss.