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A2 adjective #3,000 most common 14 min read

obediente

Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips obediente in 30 Seconds

Explanation obediente in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'obediente' is a very useful word for describing basic behaviors of people and animals you know. You will mostly use it in simple 'Subject + Verb + Adjective' sentences. For example, 'O meu cão é obediente' (My dog is obedient) or 'O meu filho é obediente' (My son is obedient). At this stage, the focus is on recognizing the word and understanding that it means someone follows rules or listens to what they are told. You should also learn that it doesn't change for gender; you use the same word for a boy or a girl. This makes it easier to remember. You might hear it in simple stories or when people talk about their families and pets. It is a foundational word for building your ability to describe personality and behavior in a positive way. Practice using it with 'ser' (to be) to describe a permanent quality. Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on this basic descriptive use.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'obediente' in more detailed sentences and begin to understand its plural form: 'obedientes'. You should be able to describe groups, like 'Os alunos são obedientes' (The students are obedient). You will also encounter the word in more varied contexts, such as describing a well-behaved child at school or a pet that has learned new tricks. You can start to use adverbs to modify the word, like 'muito obediente' (very obedient) or 'pouco obediente' (not very obedient). This level also introduces the idea of being obedient *to* someone using the preposition 'a'. For instance, 'Ele é obediente à mãe' (He is obedient to his mother). Understanding how 'a' combines with articles (like 'à' or 'ao') is a key skill at this level. You'll likely see this word in textbooks when discussing family life, education, or basic social interactions.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'obediente' in a wider range of social and professional contexts. You can use it to talk about following rules in a more abstract sense, such as 'Ser obediente às leis de trânsito' (Being obedient to traffic laws). You will also start to notice the difference between 'ser obediente' (a character trait) and 'estar obediente' (a temporary behavior). At this intermediate stage, you can begin to explore synonyms like 'dócil' or 'disciplinado' to add variety to your speech. You should also be able to understand the noun form 'obediência' and how it relates to the adjective. You might encounter 'obediente' in news articles, simple literature, or more complex conversations about society and upbringing. You can now use the word to express opinions about why obedience is important or when it might be difficult.

At the B2 level, you can use 'obediente' with nuance and precision. You understand that while it is generally a positive word, it can sometimes imply a lack of critical thinking if used in a specific way (e.g., 'obediência cega' - blind obedience). You should be able to discuss complex topics like 'desobediência civil' (civil disobedience) and use 'obediente' to describe historical figures or political situations. Your use of prepositions and agreement should be near-perfect. You can also use the word in more formal writing, such as essays or professional reports, perhaps choosing alternatives like 'cumpridor' when appropriate for the register. You will notice the word in more sophisticated media, like editorials or documentaries, where it might be used to analyze social trends or organizational behavior. You are now capable of debating the merits and drawbacks of being 'obediente' in different spheres of life.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the stylistic and cultural weight of 'obediente'. You can use it in literary analysis to describe character development or in academic contexts to discuss psychological traits. You are aware of its etymological roots and how they influence its usage in different Portuguese-speaking regions. You can effortlessly switch between 'obediente' and its many synonyms (acatador, submisso, maleável) to convey exact shades of meaning. You might use the word to explore philosophical questions about authority and the individual. Your command of the word allows you to use it ironically or metaphorically. You will encounter 'obediente' in complex legal texts, high-level literature, and academic journals, and you can interpret its meaning within these specialized frameworks. You understand the subtle social signals the word sends when used in different registers.

At the C2 level, you use 'obediente' with the mastery of a native speaker. You can appreciate and employ the word in its most subtle and archaic forms if necessary, or use it in contemporary slang contexts if they exist. You have a complete grasp of the word's place in the history of the Portuguese language and its literature. You can use 'obediente' to craft persuasive arguments, write evocative poetry, or conduct high-level professional negotiations. You understand the deep cultural implications of obedience in various Lusophone societies—from the colonial era to the present day. There are no grammatical or contextual hurdles left; the word is a flexible tool in your vast linguistic arsenal. You can analyze the use of 'obediente' in the works of great authors and understand how its meaning has shifted over centuries, using this knowledge to enrich your own communication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

obediente in 30 Seconds

Obediente is an adjective used to describe someone or something that follows orders, rules, or the wishes of an authority figure accurately.
It is a gender-neutral adjective in Portuguese, meaning 'obediente' works for both masculine and feminine nouns, simplifying its use for learners.
The word is commonly applied to children, pets, and citizens, emphasizing respect for hierarchy, discipline, and the act of listening to guidance.
In terms of grammar, it usually follows the noun and often connects to the object of obedience using the preposition 'a' (to).

The Portuguese word obediente is an adjective that describes a person, animal, or entity that follows instructions, adheres to rules, or complies with the wishes of an authority figure. At its core, it signifies a willingness to submit to direction. In Portuguese culture, being 'obediente' is often viewed through various lenses depending on the context—from the positive trait of a well-behaved child to the more complex nuance of a citizen following the law. It is derived from the Latin 'obedire', which literally means 'to listen to' or 'to give ear to'. This etymological root is crucial because it suggests that true obedience in the Lusophone world starts with the act of listening carefully to what is being asked. When you describe someone as obediente, you are highlighting their discipline and their respect for hierarchy or established norms.

Domestic Setting: In a family environment, parents frequently use this word to praise children who follow house rules without resistance. It is a cornerstone of traditional upbringing in Portugal and Brazil.

O meu filho é muito obediente e sempre faz os trabalhos de casa a horas.

Beyond the home, the term extends to the animal kingdom. Dog trainers and pet owners use it to describe a pet that responds well to commands like 'sit' or 'stay'. A 'cão obediente' is a source of pride for any owner. However, the word can also take on a more formal or even clinical tone in professional settings. While less common in modern corporate 'flat' hierarchies, it might appear in older literature or formal evaluations to describe an employee who strictly follows company protocols. In religious contexts, 'obediência' (the noun form) and 'obediente' are frequently used to describe the faithful's relationship with divine laws or ecclesiastical authorities, emphasizing a spiritual commitment to a higher path.

Legal and Social Context: Socially, being an 'obediente' citizen implies following the 'regras de convivência' (rules of coexistence) and the law of the land, contributing to social order and harmony.

A Maria é uma aluna obediente, mas também sabe questionar quando necessário.

It is important to note that while 'obediente' is generally positive, it can sometimes carry a connotation of passivity if used in a critical way. Someone who is 'excessivamente obediente' might be seen as lacking initiative or being a 'yes-man'. Therefore, the context—tone of voice and the relationship between the speaker and the subject—is vital. In modern Portuguese, there is a growing appreciation for 'autonomia' (autonomy), so while 'obediente' remains a compliment for children and pets, for adults, it is often balanced with other traits like 'proatividade' (proactivity). Understanding this balance is key to using the word naturally in conversation.

Military Usage: In the military, 'obediente' is not just a trait but a requirement. Soldiers must be obedient to the chain of command to ensure operational success and safety.

O soldado deve ser obediente às ordens dos seus superiores.

Para ter um jardim bonito, é preciso ser obediente ao calendário de rega.

In summary, 'obediente' is a versatile adjective that spans from the simple act of a child listening to their parents to the complex adherence to legal and moral codes. It is a word that values discipline, respect, and the fundamental human act of listening and responding appropriately to guidance. As you learn Portuguese, using 'obediente' will help you describe behavior in a way that resonates with the cultural emphasis on respect and social order found throughout the Portuguese-speaking world.

Using obediente correctly in Portuguese requires an understanding of basic adjective agreement and placement. Since it ends in '-e', it belongs to the category of adjectives that do not change based on gender. This simplifies things for English speakers, as you don't have to worry about 'obediento' or 'obedienta'—neither of which exist. However, you must still account for plurality. If you are describing more than one person or thing, 'obediente' becomes 'obedientes'. This change is mandatory regardless of whether the group is all male, all female, or mixed.

Singular vs. Plural: Singular: O gato é obediente. / A gata é obediente.
Plural: Os gatos são obedientes. / As gatas são obedientes.

Eles são filhos muito obedientes e nunca dão problemas.

In terms of sentence placement, 'obediente' typically follows the noun it modifies. This is the standard position for most adjectives in Portuguese. Placing it before the noun (e.g., 'o obediente filho') is possible but usually reserved for poetic or highly formal literary contexts, where it adds a layer of emotional emphasis or stylistic flair. In everyday conversation, keep it after the noun. Furthermore, 'obediente' is frequently used with the preposition 'a' (to) when specifying what or whom the person is obeying. For example, 'obediente aos pais' (obedient to the parents) or 'obediente à lei' (obedient to the law). Note the use of the contraction 'ao' or 'à' depending on the gender and number of the following noun.

Using Prepositions: When you want to say 'obedient to', use: obediente + a + [noun]. Example: 'Ele é obediente às regras do jogo.'

Devemos ser obedientes à nossa consciência acima de tudo.

Another common structure involves using 'obediente' with the verb 'ser' to describe a permanent state or character trait. If you say 'O João é obediente', you mean João is generally a well-behaved person. If you use 'estar' (though less common), you might be implying that João is being obedient in a specific, temporary situation, perhaps surprisingly so. For example, 'O João está obediente hoje' suggests that he isn't usually this way, but for some reason, he is following orders today. This distinction between 'ser' and 'estar' is a fundamental part of Portuguese and applies perfectly to this adjective.

Degree of Obedience: You can modify the intensity using adverbs: 'muito obediente' (very obedient), 'pouco obediente' (not very obedient), or 'extremamente obediente'.

O cachorro tornou-se mais obediente depois do treino.

In formal writing, such as legal documents or historical accounts, 'obediente' might be used to describe the submission of a population or a subordinate. In these cases, it often carries a weight of structural hierarchy. For instance, 'Os súbditos eram obedientes ao rei' (The subjects were obedient to the king). This shows the word's ability to scale from a simple domestic context to a grand historical or political one. When practicing, try to construct sentences that reflect these different levels of formality to get a feel for the word's range.

Mesmo sendo um espírito livre, ele era obediente aos princípios da ética.

Mastering 'obediente' involves more than just knowing its definition; it requires understanding how it fits into the grammatical structure of Portuguese through agreement, prepositional use, and the nuanced choice between 'ser' and 'estar'. By practicing these patterns, you will be able to describe behaviors and characteristics with precision and cultural sensitivity.

In the Portuguese-speaking world, you will encounter the word obediente in a variety of everyday and specialized environments. One of the most common places is the local park or a 'escola de adestramento' (dog training school). Brazilian and Portuguese pet owners are very vocal about their animals' behavior. You might hear someone say, 'Que cão tão obediente!' when they see a dog walking perfectly on a leash or sitting on command. In this context, the word is a high compliment, reflecting the owner's hard work and the animal's temperament.

The School Environment: Teachers use 'obediente' during parent-teacher meetings ('reunião de pais') to describe students who follow classroom rules and respect the authority of the educator.

A professora disse que o Ricardo é o aluno mais obediente da turma.

Another frequent setting is the family home. Portuguese-speaking cultures often place a strong emphasis on 'educação' (which means both education and good manners/upbringing). A child who is 'obediente' is seen as 'bem-educado' (well-bred/polite). You'll hear grandparents praising their grandchildren with this word, or parents using it as an adjective when introducing their children to others. It carries a sense of social pride. However, in more modern, liberal households in cities like Lisbon, Porto, São Paulo, or Rio de Janeiro, you might also hear parents debating whether they want their children to be 'obedientes' or 'independentes', reflecting a shift in modern parenting philosophies.

Religious Services: In churches, during a 'missa' (Mass) or a 'culto' (service), the priest or pastor might talk about being 'obediente a Deus' (obedient to God), emphasizing spiritual discipline.

Na Bíblia, encontramos muitos exemplos de servos obedientes.

In the media, you might hear 'obediente' in news reports concerning legal matters or public health. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, news anchors often discussed whether the 'população' (population) was being 'obediente às restrições' (obedient/compliant with the restrictions). Here, the word takes on a more civic tone, relating to collective responsibility and adherence to government mandates. Similarly, in sports commentary, a coach might praise a team for being 'taticamente obediente' (tactically obedient), meaning they followed the game plan perfectly to achieve a win. This highlights how the word can describe professional discipline and strategic execution.

Literature and Cinema: You will find 'obediente' in classic literature (like Eça de Queirós or Machado de Assis) to describe characters' social standing or moral fiber, often in relation to the strict social codes of the 19th century.

O cavalo era tão obediente que parecia ler os pensamentos do cavaleiro.

From the playground to the pulpit, and from the sports field to the evening news, 'obediente' is a word that describes the fabric of social interaction and the respect for rules that keeps a society functioning. By paying attention to these contexts, you'll start to hear the word everywhere, and you'll understand the specific weight it carries in each situation.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with the word obediente is trying to change its ending to match the gender of the noun. In English, adjectives are static, but in Portuguese, they usually change. However, 'obediente' belongs to a specific class of adjectives ending in '-e' that are 'uniforme' (uniform). This means they do not have a separate masculine and feminine form. A common error is saying 'o menino obediente' and then trying to say 'a menina obedienta'. Remember: 'obedienta' is not a word! Both the boy and the girl are 'obediente'.

The Gender Trap: Wrong: Ela é uma filha obedienta.
Right: Ela é uma filha obediente.

Não diga 'obedienta', use sempre obediente para ele ou para ela.

Another common pitfall is the confusion between 'obediente' and 'educado'. In English, 'polite' and 'obedient' are distinct, but in Portuguese-speaking cultures, they are often linked under the umbrella of 'boa educação'. However, they are not synonyms. 'Educado' means polite or well-mannered (saying please and thank you), while 'obediente' specifically means following orders. You can have a child who is very 'educado' (polite to guests) but not very 'obediente' (refuses to clean their room). Conversely, a child might be 'obediente' (does what they are told) but 'mal-educado' (rude or lacking manners). Using them interchangeably can lead to misunderstandings about a person's character.

Obediente vs. Educado: 'Obediente' = follows rules/orders.
'Educado' = has good manners/is polite.

Ele é obediente, mas às vezes esquece de ser educado e dizer 'bom dia'.

A third mistake involves the use of prepositions. Many learners try to translate directly from English 'obedient to' and might use 'para' or 'com'. While 'com' can sometimes work in very specific contexts (e.g., 'obediente com as regras'), the standard and most natural preposition is 'a'. Furthermore, because 'a' is a preposition, it often triggers a contraction with the following article. Forgetting the 'crase' (the backtick on the 'à') when followed by a feminine noun is a very common mistake even for native speakers, but it's something learners should strive to get right. For example, it's 'obediente à lei', not 'obediente a lei'.

Preposition Errors: Avoid: Obediente para o pai.
Use: Obediente ao pai.

Ser obediente às normas da empresa é fundamental para o sucesso.

By avoiding these common errors—gender misagreement, confusion with politeness, and incorrect preposition use—you will sound much more like a native speaker. Remember that 'obediente' is a powerful word that carries specific cultural and grammatical weight, and using it accurately will greatly improve your Portuguese fluency.

While obediente is a useful and common word, expanding your vocabulary with synonyms and related terms will allow you to express different shades of meaning. Depending on whether you are talking about a child, an employee, or a political subject, different words might be more appropriate. For example, if you want to describe someone who is not just obedient but also gentle and easy to manage, the word dócil is an excellent choice. This is often used for animals or people with a very mild temperament.

Obediente vs. Dócil: 'Obediente' focuses on the act of following orders. 'Dócil' focuses on the ease of being led or taught; it implies a sweet or calm nature.

O cavalo é muito dócil, o que o torna perfeito para crianças.

Another alternative is cumpridor. This word comes from the verb 'cumprir' (to fulfill or carry out). It is often used in professional or civic contexts to describe someone who does their duty. You might say someone is a 'cumpridor de ordens' or a 'cumpridor dos seus deveres'. This sounds more mature and professional than 'obediente', which can sometimes sound a bit childish. If you are talking about someone who strictly follows rules or a system, disciplinado (disciplined) is the go-to word. It implies that the obedience comes from self-control rather than just submission to another.

Obediente vs. Cumpridor: 'Obediente' is about the relationship to authority. 'Cumpridor' is about the relationship to the task or duty itself.

Ele é um funcionário cumpridor e muito pontual.

In a more negative or extreme sense, you might use submisso (submissive). This implies a lack of will or a state of being dominated. While 'obediente' can be a virtue, 'submisso' is often viewed as a weakness. On the other hand, if you want to describe someone who is flexible and willing to adapt to others' wishes, maleável (malleable/flexible) or condescendente (in its neutral sense of being accommodating) can be used. These words suggest a more social or interpersonal form of obedience. Finally, for a very formal or literary touch, acatador (one who respects/complies with) can be used, particularly in the context of laws or traditions.

Obediente vs. Submisso: 'Obediente' is generally positive/neutral. 'Submisso' often implies a loss of agency or being under someone's thumb.

Não quero que sejas submisso, quero que sejas crítico e independente.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to navigate Portuguese social situations with more nuance. Whether you are describing a 'cão dócil', a 'funcionário cumpridor', or an 'aluno disciplinado', choosing the right word shows a deeper grasp of the language and the cultural contexts in which these behaviors occur.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Because the root is 'audire' (to listen), the word 'obediente' shares a linguistic history with 'audiência' (audience) and 'auditório' (auditorium).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /u.βe.ˈðjẽ.tɨ/

US /o.be.ˈdʒjẽ.tʃi/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable: o-be-di-EN-te.

Rhymes With

contente presente ausente diferente serpente cliente doente parente

Common Errors

Pronouncing the nasal 'en' like a simple 'en' without the nasal quality.
Changing the ending to 'o' or 'a' for gender (e.g., 'obediento').
Stress on the wrong syllable (e.g., o-BE-di-ente).
In Portugal, not reducing the final 'e' enough.
In Brazil, forgetting the palatalization of 'di' and 'te' in regions where it is standard.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Very easy to recognize because of the similarity to English 'obedient'.

Writing 3/5

Requires attention to the plural 's' and the preposition 'a'.

Speaking 3/5

Nasal 'en' and regional 'di/te' variations require practice.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to spot in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ser bom regra ouvir filho

Learn Next

obedecer obediência desobediente disciplinado cumprir

Advanced

submissão acatamento insubordinação maleabilidade conivência

Grammar to Know

Adjectives ending in -e do not change for gender.

O pai obediente / A mãe obediente.

Plural of adjectives ending in -e is formed by adding -s.

Os filhos obedientes.

The preposition 'a' is used after 'obediente' to indicate the object.

Obediente ao regulamento.

Contraction of 'a' (preposition) + 'a' (article) = 'à'.

Obediente à autoridade.

Adjectives usually follow the noun in Portuguese.

Um cão obediente.

Examples by Level

O meu cão é muito obediente.

My dog is very obedient.

Simple adjective use with 'ser'.

O menino é obediente.

The boy is obedient.

Adjective follows the noun.

Ela é uma menina obediente.

She is an obedient girl.

No change for feminine gender.

O gato não é obediente.

The cat is not obedient.

Negation using 'não'.

Tu és obediente?

Are you obedient?

Question form with 'tu'.

O cavalo é obediente.

The horse is obedient.

Describing an animal.

Eles são obedientes.

They are obedient.

Plural agreement: 'obedientes'.

Nós somos obedientes.

We are obedient.

First person plural.

O aluno é obediente na escola.

The student is obedient at school.

Adding a prepositional phrase 'na escola'.

Os meus filhos são muito obedientes.

My children are very obedient.

Plural possessive and adjective agreement.

O cão é obediente ao seu dono.

The dog is obedient to its owner.

Use of 'ao' (to the).

A Maria é obediente aos pais.

Maria is obedient to her parents.

Use of 'aos' (to the plural).

Sempre fui um filho obediente.

I have always been an obedient son.

Past tense 'fui' (I was/have been).

É importante ser obediente às regras.

It is important to be obedient to the rules.

Use of 'às' (to the feminine plural).

O pequeno robô é muito obediente.

The little robot is very obedient.

Describing an object/entity.

Eles não são sempre obedientes.

They are not always obedient.

Use of 'sempre' for frequency.

Um cidadão obediente respeita as leis.

An obedient citizen respects the laws.

Abstract noun 'cidadão'.

O soldado deve ser obediente aos seus superiores.

The soldier must be obedient to his superiors.

Modal verb 'deve' (must).

Ela é obediente, mas tem as suas próprias ideias.

She is obedient, but she has her own ideas.

Contrastive conjunction 'mas'.

O cão tornou-se mais obediente com o treino.

The dog became more obedient with training.

Verb 'tornar-se' (to become).

Ser obediente nem sempre significa ser passivo.

Being obedient doesn't always mean being passive.

Gerund-like use of the infinitive 'ser'.

Ele é obediente à sua consciência.

He is obedient to his conscience.

Metaphorical use.

As crianças estão muito obedientes hoje.

The children are being very obedient today.

Use of 'estar' for temporary behavior.

Precisamos de funcionários obedientes e proativos.

We need obedient and proactive employees.

Coordinating two adjectives.

A obediência cega pode ser perigosa.

Blind obedience can be dangerous.

Noun form 'obediência'.

O regime exigia um povo obediente.

The regime demanded an obedient people.

Historical/political context.

Ele foi castigado por não ser obediente às ordens.

He was punished for not being obedient to orders.

Passive voice 'foi castigado'.

A natureza nem sempre é obediente aos nossos desejos.

Nature is not always obedient to our desires.

Personification of nature.

Ela é uma seguidora obediente daquela doutrina.

She is an obedient follower of that doctrine.

Specific context of belief.

O cavalo mostrou-se obediente durante a competição.

The horse proved to be obedient during the competition.

Pronominal verb 'mostrar-se'.

É difícil ser obediente quando as ordens são injustas.

It is difficult to be obedient when orders are unjust.

Conditional/situational clause.

O sistema é obediente aos comandos do utilizador.

The system is obedient to the user's commands.

Technical/metaphorical use.

A personagem era tragicamente obediente ao seu destino.

The character was tragically obedient to their fate.

Literary use with an adverb.

A estrutura social dependia de uma classe trabalhadora obediente.

The social structure depended on an obedient working class.

Sociological analysis.

Ele manteve-se obediente aos princípios da sua educação.

He remained obedient to the principles of his upbringing.

Verb 'manter-se' (to remain).

A prosa de Saramago não é obediente às regras gramaticais clássicas.

Saramago's prose is not obedient to classic grammatical rules.

Literary criticism.

A obediência do súbdito era o pilar do absolutismo.

The subject's obedience was the pillar of absolutism.

Historical analysis.

Sentia-se sufocado por ser tão obediente às expectativas alheias.

He felt suffocated by being so obedient to others' expectations.

Psychological depth.

O mercado não é obediente a previsões simplistas.

The market is not obedient to simplistic forecasts.

Economic context.

A sua arte é obediente apenas à sua própria visão estética.

His art is obedient only to his own aesthetic vision.

Restrictive adverb 'apenas'.

A dialética entre ser obediente e ser rebelde define a condição humana.

The dialectic between being obedient and being rebellious defines the human condition.

Philosophical discourse.

O texto jurídico exige um cumprimento obediente e literal.

The legal text demands an obedient and literal compliance.

Legal terminology.

Ela subverteu a imagem da mulher obediente do século XIX.

She subverted the image of the obedient 19th-century woman.

Cultural criticism.

A matéria, embora inerte, parece obediente às leis da física.

Matter, though inert, seems obedient to the laws of physics.

Scientific/philosophical context.

O silêncio obediente da multidão era aterrador.

The crowd's obedient silence was terrifying.

Evocative literary description.

A arquitetura deve ser obediente à função que desempenha.

Architecture must be obedient to the function it performs.

Theory of design.

Muitos filósofos questionaram se o homem é naturalmente obediente.

Many philosophers questioned whether man is naturally obedient.

Abstract inquiry.

A sua escrita é obediente a um rigor quase matemático.

His writing is obedient to an almost mathematical rigor.

Metaphorical description of style.

Common Collocations

filho obediente

cão obediente

aluno obediente

ser obediente

tornar-se obediente

obediente à lei

obediente aos pais

taticamente obediente

pouco obediente

extremamente obediente

Common Phrases

Seja obediente.

— A direct command telling someone to follow rules.

Seja obediente e coma a sopa.

Um servo obediente.

— Often used in religious or historical contexts.

Ele viveu como um servo obediente.

Obediente por natureza.

— Describing someone who is naturally inclined to follow rules.

O animal é obediente por natureza.

Menos obediente.

— Used to compare levels of compliance.

O segundo filho é menos obediente que o primeiro.

Ficar obediente.

— To become compliant in a specific moment.

Ele ficou obediente depois do aviso.

Sempre obediente.

— Emphasizing consistent good behavior.

Ela foi sempre obediente aos seus princípios.

Obediente ao comando.

— Specifically following a direct order.

O robô é obediente ao comando de voz.

Nada obediente.

— Emphasizing a total lack of obedience.

O meu irmão não é nada obediente.

Muito obediente.

— The most common way to praise good behavior.

Que criança muito obediente!

Obediente à letra.

— Following orders exactly as written/stated.

Ele foi obediente à letra das instruções.

Often Confused With

obediente vs educado

Confused because both relate to 'good behavior', but 'educado' is about manners, while 'obediente' is about following orders.

obediente vs submisso

Confused because both involve following others, but 'submisso' is negative and implies a lack of strength.

obediente vs ouvinte

Confused because of the shared root 'audire', but 'ouvinte' is a listener (noun), not necessarily an obedient person.

Idioms & Expressions

"Manda quem pode, obedece quem tem juízo."

— A common proverb meaning those with power command, and those with sense obey to avoid trouble.

No trabalho, manda quem pode, obedece quem tem juízo.

Informal/Proverbial

"Obediente como um cordeiro."

— Very obedient and gentle, often implying lack of resistance.

Ele ficou obediente como um cordeiro depois da bronca.

Colloquial

"Baixar a cabeça."

— To act in an obedient or submissive way after being confronted.

Ele baixou a cabeça e foi obediente.

Informal

"Seguir a cartilha."

— To be obedient to a specific set of rules or ideology perfectly.

Ele segue a cartilha do partido de forma obediente.

Informal

"Andar na linha."

— To behave correctly and be obedient to rules.

Desde que saiu da prisão, ele anda na linha e é obediente.

Informal

"Dizer amém a tudo."

— To be excessively obedient, agreeing with everything someone says.

Não podes dizer amém a tudo o que o chefe diz.

Colloquial

"Estar sob a batuta de alguém."

— To be obedient to someone's leadership (like an orchestra to a conductor).

A equipa é obediente sob a batuta do novo treinador.

Metaphorical

"Comer na mão de alguém."

— To be so obedient that one is completely controlled by another.

Ele come na mão dela, é muito obediente.

Slang/Informal

"Fazer o que o mestre mandar."

— To follow orders blindly (from a popular children's game).

Naquela empresa, todos fazem o que o mestre mandar.

Colloquial

"Ser um pau mandado."

— A derogatory term for someone who is too obedient and has no will of their own.

Ele não tem opinião própria, é um pau mandado.

Slang

Easily Confused

obediente vs educado

Both describe well-behaved children.

'Educado' is 'polite' (manners); 'Obediente' is 'obedient' (actions).

Um menino pode ser educado mas não ser obediente.

obediente vs submisso

Both involve compliance.

'Submisso' suggests weakness or being under someone's thumb; 'Obediente' is often a virtue.

Ela não é submissa, é apenas obediente às regras.

obediente vs dócil

Both describe easy-to-manage subjects.

'Dócil' is more about nature/temperament; 'Obediente' is about the act of obeying.

O cão é dócil, mas nem sempre é obediente.

obediente vs cumpridor

Both involve doing what is required.

'Cumpridor' is more professional/task-oriented; 'Obediente' is more about the relationship with authority.

Ele é um cumpridor de prazos.

obediente vs maleável

Both suggest following a lead.

'Maleável' is 'flexible' or 'easy to mold'; 'Obediente' is following specific commands.

O barro é maleável; a criança deve ser obediente.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + ser + obediente.

O meu gato é obediente.

[Subject] + ser + muito + obediente.

Eles são muito obedientes.

[Subject] + ser + obediente + a + [Noun].

Ela é obediente aos pais.

[Subject] + estar + obediente + hoje.

O João está muito obediente hoje.

É importante ser + obediente + à/ao + [Noun].

É importante ser obediente à lei.

Apesar de [Condition], ele é obediente.

Apesar de rebelde, ele é obediente às regras básicas.

A [Noun] revela um espírito obediente.

A sua escrita revela um espírito obediente ao cânone.

Subverter a ideia de ser obediente.

O autor subverte a ideia de ser obediente ao sistema.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in domestic and educational settings.

Common Mistakes

A menina obedienta. → A menina obediente.
Adjectives ending in -e are the same for both genders. There is no 'obedienta'.
Os cão obediente. → Os cães obedientes.
You must make both the noun and the adjective plural. 'Obediente' becomes 'obedientes'.
Obediente para o pai. → Obediente ao pai.
The correct preposition to use with 'obediente' is 'a', which contracts with 'o' to become 'ao'.
Ele é obediente a lei. → Ele é obediente à lei.
When followed by a feminine noun like 'lei', the preposition 'a' and article 'a' must merge into 'à'.
O João estar obediente. → O João é obediente.
Use 'ser' for character traits. Use 'estar' only if you mean he is being obedient temporarily/unusually.

Tips

Gender Neutrality

Remember that 'obediente' is one of those great Portuguese adjectives that doesn't change for gender. Use it for 'ele' and 'ela' without any modification. This reduces your mental workload when speaking quickly.

Pets and Kids

This is the 'golden word' for praising dogs and children. If you see a well-behaved dog in a park in Lisbon or Rio, saying 'Que cão tão obediente!' is a perfect way to start a conversation with the owner.

The 'A' Connection

Whenever you want to say *who* someone is obedient to, use 'a'. It's like a bridge. Just remember that 'a' + 'o' = 'ao' and 'a' + 'a' = 'à'. 'Obediente ao professor' is the standard way to phrase it.

Beyond Obediente

If you want to sound more professional at work, try 'cumpridor'. It means 'one who fulfills', and it sounds a bit more mature than 'obediente', which can sometimes feel like you're talking about a child.

Nasal Sounds

The 'en' in 'obediente' is nasal. Don't let your tongue touch the roof of your mouth for the 'n'. Instead, let the sound go through your nose, like the 'on' in the English word 'song' but with an 'e' sound.

Ser vs Estar

Use 'ser obediente' for a personality trait. Use 'estar obediente' if someone is being unusually well-behaved just for today. This distinction is a hallmark of a high-level Portuguese speaker.

Respect Culture

In many Lusophone countries, being 'obediente' is deeply tied to 'respeito' (respect). It's not just about following orders; it's about honoring the person who gave the order, especially if they are older.

Formal Contexts

In formal essays, 'obediência' (the noun) is often used to discuss social order. Using the adjective 'obediente' to describe a 'população' (population) is a common way to talk about civic duty.

The 'Audire' Root

If you struggle to remember the word, think of 'audio'. Obedience starts with 'hearing' (audire) the command. An 'obediente' person is a good 'hearer' of instructions.

Adjective Order

Keep 'obediente' after the noun. While you can put it before for poetic effect, 99% of the time 'filho obediente' is what you want. Putting it before can make you sound like a 19th-century poet!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Obediente' as 'Obey-di-ent'. It starts just like the English 'Obey', making it very easy to link the two in your mind.

Visual Association

Imagine a dog sitting perfectly still with its ears perked up, 'listening' (from the root 'audire') to its owner. This represents the 'obediente' animal.

Word Web

obedecer obediência ouvir ordem regra respeito disciplina dócil

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that are 'obedientes' (like a well-tuned machine) and three things that are 'desobedientes' (like a messy drawer).

Word Origin

From the Latin 'oboediens, -entis', the present participle of 'oboedire'.

Original meaning: The Latin 'oboedire' is composed of 'ob-' (towards/facing) and 'audire' (to hear/listen). Thus, it literally meant 'to listen toward' someone.

Romance (Latin branch).

Cultural Context

Be careful when calling an adult 'obediente' as it can imply they lack their own will or are being treated like a child.

English speakers might find 'obediente' slightly more formal or 'child-focused' than 'obedient' feels in some modern English contexts.

The proverb 'Manda quem pode, obedece quem tem juízo'. Religious texts frequently using 'obediência'. Dog training manuals ('Adestramento').

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Home

É um filho obediente.
Tens de ser obediente.
Ela é muito obediente.
Crianças obedientes.

Pet Training

O cão é obediente.
Treino para cães obedientes.
Ele não é obediente.
Senta! Bom cão obediente.

School

Um aluno obediente.
Regras para ser obediente.
Turma obediente.
Comportamento obediente.

Law/Society

Obediente à lei.
Cidadão obediente.
Sociedade obediente.
Obediente às normas.

Military

Soldado obediente.
Obediente às ordens.
Hierarquia obediente.
Espírito obediente.

Conversation Starters

"Achas que é importante as crianças serem sempre obedientes?"

"O teu animal de estimação é obediente ou faz o que quer?"

"Eras um aluno obediente quando andavas na escola?"

"Na tua opinião, um bom funcionário deve ser apenas obediente?"

"Qual é a diferença entre ser obediente e ser submisso?"

Journal Prompts

Escreve sobre uma situação em que foi difícil ser obediente a uma regra.

Descreve o animal mais obediente que já conheceste e o que ele fazia.

Reflete sobre a importância de ser obediente à nossa própria consciência.

Como é que a ideia de ser 'obediente' mudou na sociedade moderna?

Imagina um mundo onde ninguém é obediente. Como seria a vida?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'obediente' is a common-gender adjective. You say 'o menino obediente' and 'a menina obediente'. The ending '-e' stays the same for both genders in Portuguese, which is very helpful for learners.

You use the preposition 'a'. For example, 'obediente ao pai' (to the father) or 'obediente à mãe' (to the mother). Remember to use the contractions 'ao', 'à', 'aos', or 'às' depending on the noun that follows.

Usually, yes. It is a very positive word when describing children or pets. However, if you use it for an adult peer, it might sound a bit patronizing, implying they lack their own initiative or are too passive.

The plural is 'obedientes'. You simply add an 's' to the end. This applies to both masculine and feminine plural nouns, such as 'os cães obedientes' or 'as crianças obedientes'.

Yes, it is very common to say someone is 'obediente à lei' (obedient to the law). It sounds formal and correct in both legal and general social contexts to describe following rules.

'Educado' means polite or well-mannered (saying 'please' and 'thank you'). 'Obediente' means doing what you are told. A child can be polite but still refuse to obey an order, and vice-versa.

In most parts of Brazil, the 'di' sounds like 'jee' and the 'te' sounds like 'chee'. So it sounds like 'o-be-jee-en-chee'. In Portugal, it is more like 'o-be-dyen-te' with a soft 't'.

Yes, the verb is 'obedecer'. For example, 'Eu obedeço aos meus pais' (I obey my parents). It is a very important related word to learn alongside the adjective.

The most direct opposite is 'desobediente'. You can also use 'rebelde' (rebellious) or 'insubordinado' (insubordinate) depending on how strong or formal you want to be.

Yes, metaphorically. You might say a car or a machine is 'obediente' if it responds perfectly and easily to your controls, though this is less common than using it for living beings.