Vocabulary
discipline
noun (also a verb)·/DIS-uh-plin/
The ability to make yourself do what you should, even when you do not feel like it. It also means a field of study, and the act of correcting behavior.
Discipline has a few senses, but the one people most want is self-discipline: doing the work consistently, especially when motivation is gone. That kind of discipline, more than talent or inspiration, is what most success quietly runs on. It also means a field of study ("the discipline of economics") and the act of correcting ("disciplined for being late"). Context makes the sense obvious. The related adjective "disciplined" is a strong compliment.
5 ways to use “discipline” in a sentence
- “Talent gets you started, but discipline is what finishes things.”
- “It takes discipline to write every day when no one is watching.”
- “She brings real discipline to her training, rain or shine.”
- “Engineering and design are different disciplines with different instincts.”
- “A disciplined approach beats a burst of motivation every time.”
Now say "discipline" out loud, in your own sentence.
The fastest way to actually own a word is to use it when you speak, not just read it. Practice in TalkStride and get scored on how clearly it comes out.
Common mistakes
- Hearing only the "punishment" sense. The most useful meaning is self-discipline, the habit of doing the work.
- Spelling it "disipline" or "dicipline"; it is d-i-s-c-i-p-l-i-n-e.
- Confusing discipline (consistent effort) with mere willpower (a one-time push). Discipline is the habit.
Similar words, and how they differ
willpower
Willpower is the in-the-moment force to resist or push. Discipline is the built habit that needs less willpower over time.
control
Control is power over something. Discipline is the trained ability to govern your own actions consistently.
routine
A routine is a set sequence of actions. Discipline is what keeps you doing the routine when you do not feel like it.