it adheres to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it adheres to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing compliance, attachment, or conformity to rules, standards, or principles. Example: "The policy clearly states that it adheres to all relevant regulations and guidelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As it receives nutrients from and expels wastes into its surroundings, it adheres to and cooperates with other cells.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They should now similarly suspend Venezuela until it adheres to its own constitution.

The Economist

I think the cyclical nature of the universe in which it exists demands it adheres to some of its rules.

The Guardian - Music

China consistently rejects any criticism of its human rights record, saying it adheres to the rule of law.

Vice

It adheres to Andersen, not Disney, in its interpretation of "The Little Mermaid".

The New York Times - Arts

Considering a past act in terms of its effects, as opposed to the ethical principles it adheres to, may also moderate our behavior.

The New York Times

It adheres to all Jewish dietary laws of kashrut.

The New York Times

Nike says it adheres to the highest international standards.

The New York Times

As the solder melts, it adheres to the gold.

The New York Times - Tech

(As a British co-production, it adheres to their common twelve-and-out model).

The New Yorker

But if it adheres to a traditional model, the work is by no means boilerplate.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it adheres to", ensure the subject (the 'it') is clearly defined and the object (what it adheres to) is specific and measurable. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it adheres to" when you actually mean "it influences" or "it affects". "Adheres to" implies strict compliance, not a general impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it adheres to" functions as a verbal phrase indicating compliance, attachment, or conformity. This can be seen in Ludwig's examples where "it" may refer to a policy, a product, or a scientific principle.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it adheres to" is a versatile and commonly used expression to convey compliance, conformity, or attachment to a specific rule, standard, or principle. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its usage spans across various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings, but it's most frequently encountered in scientific and news-related content. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by defining the subject explicitly and specifying the object of adherence. While alternatives such as "it complies with" or "it conforms to" exist, "it adheres to" provides a direct and clear way to express alignment with established guidelines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it complies with

Expresses adherence through compliance, focusing on meeting requirements.

it conforms to

Indicates alignment or agreement, emphasizing structural similarity or consistency.

it abides by

Highlights obedience or acceptance of rules or guidelines.

it sticks to

Suggests maintaining a commitment or principle without deviation.

it cleaves to

Implies a strong attachment or loyalty, often in a more formal or literary context.

it is consistent with

Focuses on maintaining harmony or agreement without contradiction.

it is faithful to

Stresses loyalty and accuracy in following a model or standard.

it is congruent with

Indicates a state of agreement or harmony, often in a formal context.

it dovetails with

Suggests a perfect fit or alignment, indicating a seamless integration.

it observes

Indicates the act of following or respecting a law, custom, or practice.

FAQs

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

Use "it adheres to" to indicate compliance with a standard, rule, or principle. For example, "The company's policy ensures that it adheres to all safety regulations."

What can I say instead of "it adheres to"?

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

What's the difference between "it adheres to" and "it affects"?

"It adheres to" implies compliance or conformity to a standard or rule, while "it affects" means it has an influence or impact on something. They are not interchangeable.

Which is correct, "it adheres to" or "it adheres with"?

"It adheres to" is the correct phrasing. The preposition "to" indicates attachment or conformity, whereas "with" would not be grammatically appropriate in this context.