fly in the face of
Definition
Verb: - To directly and openly oppose, contradict, or defy something, such as a rule, established fact, or widely held belief. It implies a bold or brazen challenge to authority or convention.
Usage
This phrasal verb is used to describe an action, statement, or situation that is in clear, often shocking, conflict with something else. It is typically used in formal or serious contexts to highlight a contradiction. - It is followed by the object being contradicted (e.g., fly in the face of the law, common sense, the evidence). - It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting the action is reckless or ill-advised.
Examples
- The company's decision to dump waste into the river flies in the face of its own environmental policy.
- His theory flies in the face of centuries of established scientific knowledge.
- Such extravagant spending flies in the face of all financial advice we received.
Advanced Usage
- To fly in the face of reason/logic: To be completely irrational or illogical.
- Ignoring the expert warnings flies in the face of reason.
- To fly in the face of tradition: To deliberately act against customary practices.
- Their modern design flies in the face of architectural tradition.
Variants and Related Words
- Defy (verb): To openly resist or refuse to obey.
- Contradict (verb): To assert the opposite of a statement or fact.
- Flout (verb): To openly disregard (a rule, law, or convention).
- Oppose (verb): To be against or resist something.
Synonyms
- Contravene
- Violate
- Challenge
- Buck (informal)
Related Phrasal Verbs / Idioms
- Go against: A more neutral synonym meaning to be contrary to.
- This goes against everything we stand for.
- Thumb one's nose at: An idiomatic expression meaning to show contempt or disregard for.
- He thumbed his nose at the regulations.
Verb
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go against
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This action flies in the face of the agreement
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