1. Definition of “Defiantly”
“Defiantly” is an adverb that describes an action done in a bold, challenging, and often rebellious manner. It shows a determination to oppose or resist something, usually with a sense of provocation. For example, “The protesters stood defiantly in front of the police line, refusing to move.”
2. Synonyms
- Rebelliously
- “Rebelliously” means in a way that shows a spirit of rebellion. It emphasizes the act of going against authority, rules, or the norm. For example, “The teenager dressed rebelliously, with spiked hair and torn jeans, to show her defiance against the school's strict dress code.” This is very similar to “defiantly” as it conveys a strong intention to oppose, but “rebelliously” might focus more on the general attitude of non - conformity and resistance to established order, while “defiantly” can imply a more direct and confrontational opposition in a specific situation.
- Contumaciously
- “Contumaciously” is a more formal adverb that means stubbornly or willfully disobedient. For example, “The accused contumaciously refused to answer the lawyer's questions, showing his defiance of the legal process.” It is related to “defiantly” in the sense of a determined resistance, but it has a more legal or formal tone and implies a more obstinate and unyielding disobedience.
- Provocatively
- “Provocatively” means in a way that is intended to arouse a reaction, especially an angry or challenging one. For example, “He looked at the teacher provocatively, as if daring her to punish him.” It is similar to “defiantly” in that it can lead to a confrontation, but “provocatively” focuses more on the act of inciting a response through bold or challenging behavior, while “defiantly” emphasizes the resistance or opposition itself.
- Resolutely
- “Resolutely” means in a firm and determined way. While it doesn't have the same connotation of rebellion as “defiantly,” it can be a synonym when the emphasis is on a strong - willed stance. For example, “She resolutely held her ground during the argument, much like someone who would act defiantly.” The difference is that “resolutely” can be used in a more positive context of determination for a good cause, whereas “defiantly” often implies a more confrontational or oppositional determination.