GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.9

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

insubordination

noun

/ˌɪnsəˌbɔːdɪˈneɪʃn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of insubordination

A refusal or resistance to comply with authority, particularly within a workplace or military setting.
"The insubordination of the soldier resulted in a court-martial."

Detailed meaning of insubordination

It refers to the act of disobeying or disregarding the orders or commands of a superior. Insubordination can take many forms, including refusal to carry out duties, openly challenging authority, and engaging in acts of protest or dissent. It is considered a serious breach of discipline in many organizations and can result in disciplinary action, including termination or demotion. The term is often used in discussions of workplace culture, employee relations, and military conduct.

Example sentences containing insubordination

1. The private was punished for insubordination after arguing with his commanding officer.
2. The principal warned the student about the severe consequences of insubordination.
3. Despite her brilliance, her consistent insubordination cost her the job.
4. He was charged with insubordination for failing to follow the established protocols.
5. She was known for her insubordination and rebellious spirit.
6. The CEO does not tolerate insubordination; he values respect and teamwork.

History and etymology of insubordination

The noun 'insubordination' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'insubordinatio,' which is formed from 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'subordinatio,' meaning 'subordination' or 'placement under.' In the military context, 'subordination' referred to the act of placing oneself under the authority or command of a superior officer. 'Insubordinatio,' then, signifies a refusal or resistance to be placed under or to comply with authority. Over time, this term extended its meaning to include any context where individuals demonstrate a lack of obedience or refusal to follow orders or directives, particularly within a workplace or military setting. Thus, etymologically, 'insubordination' implies a defiance of authority, highlighting the refusal to be placed under the control or command of a higher authority figure.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun insubordination:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of insubordination

1. His blatant insubordination was a challenge to the management's authority.
2. After several instances of insubordination, the employee was asked to resign.
3. Her act of insubordination was celebrated by those who valued freedom over obedience.
4. A spirit of insubordination spread through the ranks, signaling trouble for the commander.
5. Her insubordination led to a disciplinary hearing.
6. The general addressed the insubordination within his ranks swiftly and effectively.
7. Tolerance for insubordination can lead to a breakdown in hierarchy and discipline.
8. The coach removed the player from the team due to his repeated insubordination.
9. The government cracked down on any signs of insubordination.
10. His insubordination stemmed from his fundamental disagreement with the company's ethics.
11. The act of insubordination was a turning point in the worker's strike.
12. He was accused of insubordination for speaking out against the board's decision.
13. She stood her ground, even if it was considered insubordination.
14. Frustrated with his insubordination, his supervisor transferred him to another department.