rejecting authority

[/rɪˈdʒɛktɪŋ ɔːˈθɒrɪti/]
verb phrase / gerund
rejeição de autoridade
1. The act of refusing to accept, obey, or acknowledge the power or legitimacy of an authority figure or institution
The teenager's rejecting authority was evident in his constant arguments with his parents.
A rejeição de autoridade do adolescente era evidente em suas constantes discussões com os pais.
2. A behavioral pattern or attitude of non-compliance with rules, laws, or directives from those in power
Her rejecting authority in the workplace led to disciplinary action.
Sua rejeição de autoridade no trabalho resultou em ação disciplinar.
3. A philosophical or political stance opposing hierarchical power structures
Rejecting authority is central to anarchist ideology.
A rejeição de autoridade é central à ideologia anarquista.
In Brazilian culture, 'rejeição de autoridade' is often discussed in educational and psychological contexts, particularly regarding adolescent development. In the USA, rejecting authority is frequently associated with individualism and personal freedom, especially in youth culture and counterculture movements. The phrase carries different connotations depending on context—it can be seen as healthy independence or problematic insubordination.
NYC Slang
acting out, going rogue, dissing the system
Synonyms / Sinônimos
defying authoritychallenging authorityresisting authorityinsubordinationnon-compliancerebelliousness
Antonyms / Antônimos
submitting to authorityrespecting authorityobediencecompliancedeferenceacceptance of authority

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
rejeição de autoridade
Standard usage across Brazil; also 'recusa de autoridade'
Rio de Janeiro
rejeição de autoridade / recusa de obedecer
Common in urban colloquial speech
São Paulo
rejeição de autoridade
Formal and standard usage
Portugal
rejeição da autoridade / recusa de autoridade
More formal tone preferred; slight preference for 'recusa' over 'rejeição'

Related Words

rebelliondefianceinsubordinationnon-complianceanarchismdissentdisobedienceprotest

Related Idioms & Phrases

bucking authority
going against the grain
not taking orders
calling the shots yourself
playing by your own rules
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