C1adjectiveformalworkconflict
US/ˌɪn.səˈbɔːr.dɪ.nət/
UK/ˌɪn.səˈbɔː.dɪ.nət/
refusing to obey orders or accept the authority of someone above you
In context
The soldier was punished for his insubordinate behavior toward the officer.
She was fired after an insubordinate email to her manager.
The teacher described the boy as clever but insubordinate.
Words that go with insubordinate
adjective + noun
- insubordinate behaviorInsubordinate behavior can cost you your job.
- insubordinate employeeThe company dismissed the insubordinate employee.
- insubordinate remarkHis insubordinate remark shocked the whole team.
- insubordinate conductThe officer was dismissed for insubordinate conduct toward his commander.
adverb + adjective
- openly insubordinateThe crew became openly insubordinate on the long voyage.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is insubordinate with his boss.Correct: He is insubordinate toward his boss.