Difference Between Obey and Follow

In our daily lives, we often come across the terms "obey" and "follow." While these words may seem synonymous, they have distinct meanings and implications. It is essential to understand the difference between obeying and following to avoid confusion and misunderstandings. In this article, we will delve into the definitions, meanings, and differences between obey and follow, along with some examples to help clarify their uses.

What is Obey?

To obey means to comply with an order or command given by an authority figure. It implies a certain level of submission to the person giving the order. Obeying is often associated with rules, laws, and regulations that are enforced by an authoritative body. For example, a student is expected to obey their teacher's instructions during class, and employees must obey their supervisor's commands at work.

What is Follow?

To follow means to go after, come after, or pursue something or someone. It can also mean to imitate or emulate a person's actions or behavior. Following is often associated with personal choices, decisions, or interests. For example, someone may choose to follow a certain lifestyle, religion, or career path.

Definition and Meaning

Definition of Obey and Follow

Obey	Follow
To comply with an order or command	To go after, come after, or pursue
Submission to an authority	To imitate or emulate
Enforcement of rules, laws, and regulations	Personal choice, decision, or interest

Meaning of Obey and Follow

Obey	Follow
Compliance with an authoritative figure	Pursuing personal interests
Submission to rules and regulations	Imitating or emulating someone's actions
Enforcement of commands	Going after or coming after something

What's the Difference?

The main difference between obey and follow lies in the relationship between the person giving the command and the person receiving it. When someone obeys, they are complying with an order given by an authority figure. It implies a certain level of submission to the person in charge. Following, on the other hand, does not necessarily involve an authority figure. It can be a personal choice or decision based on one's interests, values, or goals.

Another significant difference is that obeying is often associated with rules and regulations that are enforced by an authoritative body, such as a government, school, or workplace. Following, however, is more personal and subjective, and it is often associated with individual preferences and choices.

What's the Relationship?

While obeying and following have distinct meanings, they can also be closely related. When someone follows a set of rules or guidelines, they are essentially obeying them. For example, if someone follows a specific diet plan, they are obeying the rules of that diet. Similarly, if someone follows a particular religious practice, they are obeying the tenets of that religion.

On the other hand, obeying can also lead to following. When someone obeys an authority figure, they may adopt the beliefs, values, or practices of that person or organization. For example, a soldier who obeys the orders of their commanding officer may adopt the military's values and beliefs.

Example

To better understand the difference between obey and follow, let's take a look at some examples.

A teacher instructs her students to complete a math worksheet. The students obey by completing the worksheet as instructed.
A person decides to follow a vegan lifestyle based on personal beliefs and values.
An employee follows company policies and procedures to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
A child obeys their parent's command to clean their room.

Table of Comparison

To summarize the differences between obey and follow, here is a table of comparison:

Obey	Follow
Compliance with an authoritative figure	Pursuing personal interests
Submission to rules and regulations	Imitating or emulating someone's actions
Enforcement of commands	Going after or coming after something
External motivation	Internal motivation
Can be forced or required	Voluntary choice
Involves authority and power	Involves personal preferences and decisions
Associated with rules and regulations	Associated with personal beliefs and values

In conclusion, obeying and following are two concepts that are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings and implications. Obeying involves compliance with an authority figure and is often associated with rules, regulations, and commands enforced by an external authority. Following, on the other hand, involves personal choices, interests, and preferences and is often associated with pursuing personal goals and values. While these two concepts have different meanings, they can also be related, as following can lead to obeying, and obeying can lead to following. Understanding the difference between these two concepts can help us navigate various situations in our personal and professional lives.