need to conform

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need to conform" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to express a necessity or obligation for someone to follow rules or norms. Example: In order to be accepted into the prestigious university, students need to conform to the school's strict academic standards and code of conduct.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Feeds need to conform to common, open standards (valid Atom).

University of California, Berkeley

Under the proposed code, six-month financial reports would need to conform to international accounting standards.

The New York Times

Do pants actually need to conform to traditional stereotypes of body covering?

The New York Times

As such, the building does not need to conform with city building or environmental codes.

The New York Times

One song, "True Thrush," talks about a soul trapped by a need to conform to society.

The New York Times - Arts

Women aren't the only ones in ballet who need to conform to body stereotypes.

The New York Times - Arts

The average American felt the need to conform, scared of what might result if he didn't.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"She has never been one to feel the need to conform; she simply follows her instinct," says Victoria Beckham.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Fuel blend properties need to conform with fuel regulation standards in order to be accepted as a vehicular fuel option.

Energy Procedia

His message was that there is a bigger world out there, and that I didn't need to conform to those around me.

The New York Times

What a pity that the author felt the need to conform with formulaic management books and end each chapter with a "summary" and a number of blobbed "recommendations".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need to conform", ensure the context clearly specifies what standards, rules, or norms are being referenced. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "need to conform" without specifying to what. Instead of saying "Employees need to conform", state "Employees need to conform to the company's dress code and ethical guidelines" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to conform" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing obligation or necessity. It's used to indicate that someone or something must adhere to specific rules, standards, or societal norms. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "need to conform" is a frequently used phrase expressing the requirement to adhere to specific standards or rules. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread across various contexts. Primarily found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, this phrase highlights the importance of compliance for acceptance, success, or legal adherence. When using "need to conform", always specify what standards are being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases include "must comply with" and "should adhere to", offering varying degrees of formality and obligation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must be in accordance with

Stresses a state of agreement or conformity with established guidelines.

must comply with

Indicates a stricter obligation to follow rules or regulations.

are required to meet

Emphasizes the presence of a formal requirement or standard.

should adhere to

Suggests a recommendation or guideline to follow, less forceful than "must comply".

have to follow

A more direct and less formal way of expressing the necessity to adhere to something.

are obliged to observe

Highlights a duty or commitment to follow specific rules or practices.

ought to abide by

Similar to "should adhere to", implying a moral or ethical obligation.

are bound to obey

Expresses a legal or moral imperative to adhere to a specific set of rules or laws.

should align with

Focuses on the act of making something consistent with certain principles or standards.

should fall in line with

Implies adjusting one's behavior or actions to match a set standard or expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "need to conform" in a sentence?

Use "need to conform" when indicating that someone or something must adhere to specific rules, standards, or expectations. For example, "New products need to conform to safety regulations before they can be sold."

What's a formal way to say "need to conform"?

In formal contexts, you can use phrases like "must comply with" or "must be in accordance with" to express a similar meaning with a more authoritative tone.

What are some alternatives to "need to conform"?

Alternatives include "should adhere to", "have to follow", or "are required to meet", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "need to conform" and "desire to conform"?

"Need to conform" implies an obligation or requirement, while "desire to conform" suggests a personal wish to fit in or meet expectations, driven by internal motivation rather than external pressure.