défier

to defy, to challenge

verb deh-FYEH Less Common

Usage Note

Défier means to challenge someone or to defy an authority or expectation; défier quelqu'un en duel means 'to challenge someone to a duel'. The reflexive se défier de (literary register) means 'to be wary of/to distrust'. The noun défi ('a challenge/dare') is its most common related form.

Examples

"Il a défié son rival devant tout le monde."

Natural Translation

He challenged his rival in front of everyone.

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