are complying with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are complying with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone or something is following rules, regulations, or standards. Example: "The company assures that they are complying with all safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We are complying with everything".

The New York Times

We are complying with the subpoena.

The New York Times

So yes, big insurers are complying with the law.

The New York Times - Health

Where they are complying with the Iran deal?

Columbia University

He says the Iranians are complying with the JCPOA.

The Guardian

Both the Macedonian Army and rebel fighters are complying with NATO's requests, a NATO spokesman said.

The New York Times

They say they are complying with the Koran's injunction to dress modestly.

The New York Times

"That doesn't give us much comfort that beneficiaries are complying with our rules," he said.

The New York Times

This section is about how firms should demonstrate they are complying with the rules.

The Guardian - Business

"Taxis are complying with excessive regulation, while ride-sharing networks are not.

The Guardian

Few Americans have a clue whether they are complying with it.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For better clarity, always specify the exact standards, laws, or regulations being complied with after the phrase "are complying with".

Common error

While "are complying with" is technically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for more natural alternatives like "are following" or "are sticking to" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are complying with" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present continuous tense, indicating an ongoing action of adhering to a set of rules, regulations, or standards. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are complying with" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote adherence to rules, regulations, or standards. As verified by Ludwig, it is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business settings. While simpler alternatives exist for informal use, this phrase effectively communicates conformity and responsible behavior. Common authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this expression. The best practice is to be as specific as possible about what standards are being adhered to. Be mindful of the formality level, as while technically correct, it could sound too formal in a more casual environment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in compliance with

A more formal and legalistic way of saying that something is adhering to rules.

are adhering to

Emphasizes sticking closely to a set of rules or guidelines.

are meeting the requirements of

Specifically addresses fulfilling necessary criteria or conditions.

are conforming to

Highlights alignment with established standards or norms.

are abiding by

Suggests obedience and respect for rules or laws.

are upholding

Emphasizes maintaining or defending a standard, law, or principle.

are observing

Focuses on the act of watching and following regulations.

are acting in accordance with

Highlights actions being aligned with principles or agreements.

are executing

Underscores the active implementation of guidelines or directives.

are following

A more general term indicating adherence to a set path or instructions.

FAQs

What does "are complying with" mean?

The phrase "are complying with" means that someone or something is following rules, regulations, laws, or standards. It indicates adherence and conformity to specific requirements.

How to use "are complying with" in a sentence?

You can use "are complying with" to indicate adherence to rules. For example, "The company assures that they "are complying with" all safety regulations."

What can I say instead of "are complying with"?

You can use alternatives like "are adhering to", "are conforming to", or "are following", depending on the context.

Is "are complying with" formal or informal?

"Are complying with" is generally considered a formal phrase. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "are following" might be more appropriate.