adheres to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adheres to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate compliance or conformity to a rule, standard, or principle. Example: "The company adheres to strict safety regulations to ensure the well-being of its employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Its decline adheres to no particular arc.

The New York Times - Sports

The rind adheres to the cheese.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The show adheres to many sitcom clichés.

The New York Times - Arts

The kitchen adheres to current boycotts.

The New York Times - Travel

She always adheres to the message".

The New York Times

In cooking, he adheres to a strict Texan technique.

The New York Times

The kingdom adheres to an ultraconservative interpretation of Islam.

The Guardian

And sports adheres to an old model of China?

The New Yorker

Mr. Lively adheres to a diet he believes Jesus followed.

The New York Times - Food

"Our company very carefully adheres to the A.M.A. guidelines".

The New York Times

He completely adheres to the Senate ethics rules.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adheres to", ensure the subject is capable of conscious compliance (e.g., a person, organization, or system) rather than a physical object (unless used metaphorically).

Common error

Avoid using "adheres to" when describing a physical substance sticking to something, as in "the paint adheres to the wall". Instead, opt for verbs like "sticks", "bonds", or "clings" which are more appropriate for physical adhesion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adheres to" functions as a verb phrase, indicating compliance, conformity, or attachment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It connects a subject to a standard, rule, or principle that it follows or is consistent with, evident in examples like "The study adheres to the RATS guidelines."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

44%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adheres to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that signifies compliance or conformity, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's most commonly found in scientific and news-related contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. To ensure proper usage, consider whether the subject can consciously comply with rules or principles. Alternatives like "complies with" or "conforms to" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember that the correct form depends on the subject, using "adhere to" for plural subjects and "adheres to" for singular. Finally, always verify authoritative sources to confirm best practice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complies with

Indicates acting in accordance with a command, rule, or request, emphasizing obedience.

conforms to

Focuses on aligning with a standard or pattern, suggesting similarity in form or character.

abides by

Emphasizes adherence to a rule, agreement, or decision, highlighting commitment.

obeys

Highlights direct compliance to a command or authority, suggesting a hierarchical relationship.

follows

Indicates going after or along a path or principle, implying guidance or direction.

upholds

Stresses the act of maintaining or defending a principle or law, suggesting a protective role.

respects

Highlights consideration and regard for rules, rights or feelings, showcasing deference.

is consistent with

Indicates a harmonious relationship or lack of contradiction, focusing on logical alignment.

sticks to

Implies loyalty or dedication to a plan or principle, suggesting resistance to change.

observes

Highlights careful watching and following of a law or custom, emphasizing attentiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "adheres to" in a sentence?

The phrase "adheres to" is used to indicate compliance or conformity to a rule, standard, or principle. For example, "The company "adheres to" strict safety regulations."

What are some alternatives to "adheres to"?

You can use alternatives like "complies with", "conforms to", or "abides by" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "adhere to" instead of "adheres to"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "adhere to" for plural subjects (e.g., "They adhere to the rules") and "adheres to" for singular subjects (e.g., "He "adheres to" the schedule").

What is the difference between ""adheres to"" and "follows"?

"Adheres to" implies a stricter, more formal compliance with rules or principles, while "follows" suggests a more general guidance or direction. For instance, one might "adhere to" a contract but "follow" a suggestion.