Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
complying by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "complying by" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used incorrectly as "complying with" is the correct form to indicate adherence to rules or regulations. Example: "The company is complying with all safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
"We improved our offer substantially, and they are complying by responding to our top priorities, primarily in agriculture," said Regis Arslanian, Brazil's chief negotiator in the talks with the European Union.
News & Media
"Somewhere along the line we're going to have to start reporting people who are not complying by giving their license plates to the police department and having them issue a summons," he said.
News & Media
Wal-Mart was aware of these issues when it announced last June that it expected its top 100 suppliers to use radio tags on shipments by the end of this year, with all suppliers complying by the end of next year.
News & Media
The government will be expected to begin complying by June 1 , 2007
News & Media
Examples in the commercial sector would be ensuring that all the employees are complying by the travel and expense reimbursement policies to flag any exceptions.
News & Media
Telegram has been complying by targeting channels and bots related in any way to pornography or criminal activity and their efforts appear to be working.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
52 human-written examples
Mr. Bush had hoped to comply by next year.
News & Media
The airlines might comply by reducing baggage allowances.
News & Media
But the companies are bound to comply by Friday.
News & Media
Many complied by offering solo or two-person presentations, while others assembled small theme shows.
News & Media
Most other employers and insurers must comply by this Aug. 1.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always use "complying with" instead of "complying by" to ensure grammatical accuracy. For example, say "The company is complying with regulations" instead of "The company is complying by regulations."
Common error
Avoid using "by" after "complying". The correct preposition is "with". Using "by" suggests a method, not adherence to a standard. Stick to "complying with" to maintain grammatical correctness.
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "complying by" is typically intended to express adherence or conformity. However, it's grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "complying with". Ludwig identifies this as an error and suggests using "complying with" instead.
Frequent in
News & Media
100%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "complying by" is used, it's grammatically incorrect. The correct and widely accepted form is "complying with". As Ludwig AI points out, it's crucial to use the correct preposition to accurately convey the intended meaning of adherence or conformity. Always opt for "complying with" to maintain grammatical correctness and clarity in your writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
complying with
Corrects the grammatical error by using the proper preposition 'with' instead of 'by'.
adhering to
Replaces "complying" with "adhering", offering a synonymous verb with similar connotations and the correct preposition.
conforming to
Substitutes "complying" with "conforming", a synonym that also requires the preposition 'to'.
following
Simplifies the expression to a more basic verb while retaining the meaning of adherence.
abiding by
Emphasizes the act of obeying or following a rule or law, maintaining a close semantic relationship.
meeting requirements
Focuses on fulfilling specific conditions or standards, shifting from the act of complying to the outcome.
in compliance with
Transforms the phrase into a prepositional phrase, highlighting a state of adherence.
observing rules
Highlights the act of following established rules or customs.
executing in accordance with
A more formal and complex way of indicating following procedures or guidelines exactly.
acting in conformity with
Similar to 'conforming to' but with a slightly more formal tone.
FAQs
What is the correct way to say "complying by"?
The correct way to express adherence to rules or regulations is by saying "complying with".
What does "complying with" mean?
"Complying with" means acting in accordance with a rule, law, or standard. It indicates adherence and obedience to specified guidelines.
Which is correct, "complying by" or "complying with"?
"Complying with" is the grammatically correct form. "Complying by" is not standard English.
What are some alternatives to "complying with"?
Alternatives to "complying with" include "adhering to", "conforming to", and "following", depending on the context.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested