must adhere to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must adhere to" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to the idea that someone is obligated to follow instructions or regulations. For example: All members of the company must adhere to the dress code.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All CPIM-compliant implementations must adhere to these specifications.

Internet Multimedia Communications Using SIP A Modern Approach Including Java® Practice

Each submission must adhere to SIGPLAN's republication policy.

Harvard University

Note: Students must adhere to Law School registration deadlines.

Columbia University

But Hannibal, as a network show, must adhere to countless restricting regulations.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The court must adhere to accepted methods of interpreting and applying legal texts.

The New York Times

It was mandated by the F.C.C. so that all telephone companies must adhere to it.

The New York Times

And charter schools must adhere to a rigorous review process to keep their charter.

The New York Times

But researchers must adhere to strict rules to tap the StudyResponse panel.

The New York Times - Tech

"Houthi forces must adhere to to the ceasefire," said the Saudi analyst Mohammed al-Yayha.

The Guardian

The decision is made and so far, it looks like the riders must adhere to it.

The New York Times

Windows must remain closed, and pupils must adhere to the strict air safety code.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "must adhere to", ensure the context clearly defines what rules, standards, or guidelines are being referenced. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences using "must adhere to" in a passive voice. For example, instead of "The regulations must be adhered to", use "The company must adhere to the regulations" for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must adhere to" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating obligation or necessity. Ludwig confirms this through its examples, demonstrating that the phrase emphasizes a mandatory requirement to follow specific rules, standards, or guidelines.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "must adhere to" signifies a mandatory obligation to follow specific rules, standards, or guidelines. Ludwig's analysis confirms this, highlighting its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, especially in News & Media, Science, and Academia. The phrase exhibits a neutral to formal register and is best used to convey clear instructions or regulations. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being adhered to and avoid passive voice constructions. For alternatives, consider options like "is required to comply with" or "has to comply with". Overall, "must adhere to" is a reliable and widely accepted phrase for expressing necessary compliance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has to comply with

Simple substitution of "must adhere" with the more common "has to comply".

is required to comply with

Changes the phrasing to emphasize the requirement of compliance.

is obliged to follow

Replaces "adhere to" with "follow" to simplify the language.

is mandated to abide by

Uses "mandated" to emphasize a formal requirement and "abide by" for compliance.

needs to conform to

Replaces "must" with "needs to" and "adhere" with "conform" to soften the tone slightly.

is bound to observe

Uses "bound to" to indicate obligation and "observe" as a synonym for adhere.

is legally obligated to fulfill

Focuses on the legal aspect of the obligation.

is compelled to respect

Emphasizes the aspect of respecting rules or guidelines.

is subject to

Expresses a state of being under the control or influence of something, indicating required compliance.

is duty-bound to uphold

Highlights the sense of duty and maintaining standards.

FAQs

How can I use "must adhere to" in a sentence?

The phrase "must adhere to" is used to indicate that something is required to follow a specific set of rules or guidelines. For example, "All participants must adhere to the safety regulations".

What can I say instead of "must adhere to"?

You can use alternatives like "is required to comply with", "needs to conform to", or "has to comply with" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "must adhere to" or "should adhere to"?

"Must adhere to" implies a strict requirement, while "should adhere to" suggests a recommendation. Use "must" when compliance is mandatory and "should" when it's advisable but not strictly enforced.

What's the difference between "must adhere to" and "must comply with"?

While similar, "must adhere to" often refers to following specific guidelines or principles, whereas "must comply with" usually relates to laws or regulations. Both imply a mandatory obligation.