What is obey? Pronunciation and usage in English

obey means . Learn how to pronounce and use obey through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of obey

obeyverb

/ə(ʊ)ˈbeɪ/
Definition & pronunciation of obey

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "obey" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sounds:

  • "O": Pronounced like the "oh" in "go" or "boat".
  • "B": A standard "b" sound - as in "ball".
  • "E": This is the tricky part! It's pronounced like the “ay” in “say” or “day”.

2. Putting it Together:

The full pronunciation is: "uh-bey"

  • "uh" (as in "cup") – This is a short, unstressed vowel sound. It’s often called a schwa sound (represented by the symbol ə).
  • "bey" – This combines the "b" and the "ay" sound.

3. Tips and Considerations:

  • Don't stress the "o": It’s not pronounced like the “oh” in “over.” It's a very brief, almost swallowed “uh.”
  • Focus on the "ay" sound: Really try to say "ay" at the end. That's where many people stumble.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "obey" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/obey/) - This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce obey" on YouTube.

4. Common Mistakes:

  • Pronouncing the "o" as in "over."
  • Pronouncing the "e" as in "eat."

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you an example sentence using "obey"?

Usage and examples with the word obey in English

Let's break down how to use the word "obey" effectively in English.

1. Basic Meaning:

"Obey" means to follow or comply with a rule, law, order, request, or command. It implies a submission to authority or a recognized power.

2. Parts of Speech & Usage:

  • Verb: This is the most common use. It describes an action.
    • Example: "Children should obey their parents." (Action of following parental guidance)
    • Example: "The soldiers obeyed the general's orders." (Action of following orders)
    • Example: "She obeyed the traffic signals." (Action of following the rules)

3. Common Phrases & Expressions:

  • Obey a law/rule: "Citizens are expected to obey the law."
  • Obey a command: "He obeyed his superior's command to report immediately."
  • Obey a request: "I obeyed her request and brought her a glass of water."
  • Obey instructions: "Follow the instructions carefully and obey them precisely."
  • Obey out of respect: "He obeyed her advice simply because he respected her judgment."

4. Connotations & Nuances:

  • Positive Connotation (Often): In many contexts, "obey" implies respect for authority, adherence to standards, and a demonstration of good citizenship.
  • Negative Connotation (Sometimes): It can also carry a negative connotation, suggesting blind obedience, lack of critical thinking, or compliance simply for the sake of it. This is especially true when used in criticisms of totalitarian regimes or rigid social structures.

5. Synonyms:

  • Comply
  • Follow
  • Respect
  • Adhere to
  • Submit to
  • Obstruct (This is the opposite – to not obey)

6. Example Sentences (Varied):

  • "The prisoners were forced to obey the guards’ every instruction." (Negative - suggests a lack of freedom)
  • "Students are expected to obey the school’s rules and regulations." (Neutral - following guidelines)
  • "She bravely obeyed the pleas for help from the stranded hikers." (Positive - shows courage and compassion)
  • "Although he disagreed, he obeyed the judge’s ruling." (Neutral - demonstrates respect for the legal system)

7. Important Considerations:

  • Context is Key: The meaning and tone of “obey” are heavily influenced by the context in which it's used.
  • Critical Thinking: Be mindful of situations where blind obedience might be harmful or unwise. It’s often valuable to question authority and think critically.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to do with the word "obey"? (e.g., write a story, explain a concept, answer a question?)
  • Can you provide a specific sentence or situation where you're considering using "obey"?

Synonyms for the word obey

Practice with vocabulary obey

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Drivers are legally required to ______ traffic laws.
  2. Children should be taught to ______ their parents' instructions for their own safety.
  3. It is essential to ______ the instructions provided in the manual for proper assembly.
  4. Many organizations aim to ______ high standards of environmental responsibility.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. When a government issues a new law, citizens are expected to: a) question it b) obey it c) ignore it d) comply with it e) defy it

  2. To ensure safety, employees must always ______ the emergency procedures. a) disregard b) follow c) obey d) invent e) overlook

  3. Which of the following describes a scenario where an individual acts according to explicit instructions or commands? a) A team member challenges the manager's directive. b) A subordinate disregards a direct order. c) A soldier strictly ______ a command from a superior officer. d) An employee questions the validity of a new policy. e) A junior staff member carries out a senior's instruction.

  4. Before making a significant decision, it's wise to ______ expert advice. a) dismiss b) consider c) disregard d) solicit e) ignore

  5. To maintain professional credibility, one must always ______ ethical standards. a) violate b) adhere to c) uphold d) abandon e) compromise

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Citizens are expected to act in accordance with the country's laws. Rewrite using "obey": Citizens are expected to ______ the country's laws.

  2. Original: The company requires all staff to comply with its strict code of conduct. Rewrite using "obey": All staff must ______ the company's strict code of conduct.

  3. Original: It is important to pay attention to the safety instructions before operating the machinery. Rewrite (do not use "obey"): It is important to ______ the safety instructions before operating the machinery.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. obey
  2. obey
  3. follow
  4. uphold

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) obey, d) comply with
  2. b) follow, c) obey
  3. c) obeys, e) carries out
  4. b) consider, d) solicit
  5. b) adhere to, c) uphold

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Citizens are expected to obey the country's laws.
  2. All staff must obey the company's strict code of conduct.
  3. It is important to heed the safety instructions before operating the machinery.

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