he complies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he complies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a person is following rules, requests, or instructions. Example: "When asked to submit the report by Friday, he complies without hesitation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

He complies.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Slater can remain free as long as he complies with the terms of the agreement.

The New York Times

And when she asks Tom to bring an eligible young man home, he complies.

The New Yorker

He has warned Sadr that his group will be proscribed unless he complies with the prime ministerial demands.

The Guardian - Opinion

The N.H.L. said in a statement that he would face no penalty as long as he complies with his treatment and follow-up program.

The New York Times - Sports

Near the fuel cap of Mr. Williams's Lexus, he said, is a note that reads, "premium fuel only," and he complies.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

He complied.

The New York Times

On Tuesday he complied.

Independent

He complied instantly.

The New York Times

He complied, under protest.

The New Yorker

They did, and he complied.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he complies" to clearly indicate that someone is adhering to a specific rule, request, or directive. Ensure the context makes it clear what the subject is complying with.

Common error

Avoid using "he complies" when the action is merely a suggestion or a matter of personal preference. "Complies" implies an obligation or requirement is being met, not simply a choice being made.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he complies" functions as a verb phrase indicating adherence to a rule, request, or command. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct way to express that someone is following instructions. Many examples from Ludwig show the phrase used in news and media to describe adherence to laws, agreements, or orders.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he complies" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying adherence to rules, requests, or commands. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register appropriate for factual reporting. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly specifies what the subject is complying with, and avoid using it when the action is merely a suggestion or personal preference. Consider alternatives such as "he obeys" or "he adheres" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he obeys

This alternative highlights the act of following orders or rules.

he adheres

This alternative emphasizes sticking to a standard or principle.

he follows

This alternative suggests conformity to instructions or guidelines.

he submits

This alternative implies yielding to authority or control.

he concedes

This alternative suggests reluctantly agreeing or acknowledging something.

he gives in

This alternative indicates surrendering or ceasing resistance.

he falls in line

This alternative emphasizes aligning with a group or system.

he acts accordingly

This alternative focuses on behaving in a manner that is suitable or expected.

he fulfills

This alternative means he carries out or completes an action or task.

he consents

This alternative refers to granting permission or agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "he complies" in a sentence?

Use "he complies" to show that someone is following a rule, request, or order. For example: "When asked to submit the report early, "he complies" without hesitation."

What are some alternatives to "he complies"?

You can use alternatives like "he obeys", "he adheres", or "he follows" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "he complies to" something?

No, the correct usage is "he complies with" something. The preposition "with" is necessary to link the verb "complies" to the rule, request, or order being followed.

What's the difference between "he complies" and "he agrees"?

"He complies" implies an obligation or requirement is being met, whereas "he agrees" simply means he is in accord with a suggestion or idea. Compliance is about following rules; agreement is about sharing opinions.