Spanish word

obediencia

Pronunciation

IPA/oβeˈðjenθja/

Meaning

  • feminine nounobedience

Example

La obediencia ciega puede ser peligrosa.

Blind obedience can be dangerous.

Illustration for obediencia (obedience)

More examples

Los niños suelen mostrar obediencia a los padres.

Children often show obedience to their parents.

Core concept

Disposition to accept and follow authority, rules, or given instructions.

Common phrases

  • obediencia ciega

    blind obedience

  • obediencia a los padres

    obedience to parents

Similar words

disciplina: Habitual cultivation of self-discipline through rules and regular practice.
respeto: Respectful regard for people, traditions, or established rules.
cumplimiento: Consistent carrying out of required duties, tasks, or commitments.

Definition in Spanish

Estado o disposición de someterse a la autoridad, a reglas o a las instrucciones recibidas.

Word origin

From Latin obedientia, based on obedire 'to obey' (literally 'toward hearing'), which moved from 'listening' to 'submission'.

Usage tips

  • Use obedecer or hacer caso when focusing on the action of obeying, since obediencia emphasizes the overall state or attitude rather than a single act.

Other meanings

  • submissionnoun

Opposites

  • desobedienciadisobediencenoun
  • rebeldíadefiancenoun

Related words

  • obedecerobeyverb
  • obedienteobedientadjective

Word lists with this word