Discipline
noun/ˈdɪ.sə.plɪn/Discipline is the practice of training yourself to follow rules, control your behavior, and focus on tasks, often to achieve a goal. It involves consistent effort and self-control, enabling you to do what is necessary even when it's difficult or you lack motivation. It can also refer to a field of study or a method of correcting behavior.
Imagine you have a big goal, like learning English or saving money. To reach it, you need to stick to a plan, even when it's hard or you don't feel like it. That consistent effort and control over your actions is what we call "discipline." It's about training yourself to do what's necessary.
Many learners often think "discipline" only means punishment, like when a parent disciplines a child. While that's one meaning, the most common use, especially for adults, is about self-control and consistent practice to achieve something. It's important to understand both sides!
Is “discipline” positive or negative?
“Discipline” is a neutral word. "Discipline" is generally a neutral word, but its connotation changes based on context. When referring to self-discipline, it's positive, implying dedication and strength. When it means punishment, it can feel negative. As a field of study, it's purely descriptive and neutral.
Discipline in a sentence
- “Learning a new language requires a lot of discipline to practice every day.
- “The athlete showed incredible discipline by waking up at 5 AM for training, even on weekends.
- “Good financial discipline helps people save money for their future goals.
- “The teacher had to discipline the unruly students after they disrupted the class.
- “Economics is a challenging academic discipline that studies how societies manage resources.
- “Effective project management demands discipline in sticking to deadlines and budgets.
Common phrases with “discipline”
Words similar to “discipline” (and how they differ)
This refers specifically to your ability to manage your own emotions, desires, and actions. "Discipline" can be broader, including external rules or training.
“Despite feeling angry, he maintained excellent self-control and didn't raise his voice.”
This describes a state where things are organized, neat, and follow a logical arrangement. "Discipline" is the action or training that leads to order.
“The librarian worked hard to restore order to the messy shelves.”
This means the process of teaching or learning a skill or type of behavior, often for a specific purpose. "Discipline" is often a part of effective training.
“The new employees received intensive training in customer service.”
This is a penalty given for breaking a rule or law, or for bad behavior. While "discipline" can involve punishment, it also includes positive training and self-regulation.
“The severe punishment served as a warning to others not to cheat.”
This refers to a rule or authoritative direction that controls an activity or process. "Discipline" is about the adherence to such rules or the system that enforces them.
“New government regulations were introduced to improve food safety.”
Opposites of “discipline”
Word family
Someone who is disciplined shows self-control and follows rules. "She is a very disciplined student, always completing her homework on time."
To train someone to obey rules, or to punish someone for misbehavior. "The coach had to discipline the player for being late to practice."
A person who believes in or enforces strict discipline. "My old high school principal was a real disciplinarian."
Where the word comes from
The word "discipline" comes from the Old French "descepline" and ultimately from the Latin "disciplina," meaning "instruction, training, teaching," which is related to "discipulus," meaning "student" or "learner."
Frequently asked
What does "discipline" mean?
"Discipline" means the practice of training yourself to control your behavior and actions, follow rules, and stay focused on achieving a goal, even when it's difficult. It also refers to a field of study or a way to correct misbehavior.
Is "discipline" positive or negative?
It's generally a neutral word, but its feeling changes with context. When talking about self-discipline (like studying hard), it's positive. When it means punishment, it can feel negative. As an academic subject, it's neutral.
How do you use "discipline" in a sentence?
You can say, "She shows great discipline in her workout routine," or "The children need more discipline in the classroom."
What is the difference between "discipline" and "self-control"?
"Self-control" specifically refers to your ability to manage your own emotions and impulses. "Discipline" is broader; it's the consistent practice of controlling your actions and following a plan to achieve something, which often requires self-control.
Can "discipline" mean punishment?
Yes, "discipline" can refer to the act of punishing someone, especially a child, to correct their behavior. For example, "The parents disciplined their child for lying."
What is an "academic discipline"?
An "academic discipline" is a specific branch of knowledge or study, like history, biology, or psychology. It refers to an organized field of learning with its own methods and theories.