not to comply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not to comply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing refusal or failure to follow rules, requests, or orders. Example: "The organization decided not to comply with the new regulations imposed by the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many states have threatened not to comply.

The Guardian

She repeated her intention not to comply with his request.

The New York Times

But Republicans say that is not a valid legal reason not to comply with a subpoena.

The New York Times

More than 200 ultra-Orthodox rabbis have ordered their adherents not to comply with the regulation.

The New York Times

All three firms have also chosen not to comply with N.Y.S.E.

The New York Times

Followers were encouraging her not to comply with negotiators' request that she surrender peacefully".

The Guardian

Truman decided not to comply and asked his lawyer, Samuel I. Rosenman, for help.

The New York Times

you disagreed with the law, and you decided not to comply with the law.

The Guardian - Opinion

Japan angrily rejected the new zone and even ordered commercial flights not to comply with the Chinese rules.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He also said he was looking at other companies that appeared not to comply with the law.

The Guardian

The flow of cargo would be disrupted beyond repair for us not to comply with security regulations".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not to comply", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is refusing to comply with. Being specific enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "not to comply" when a simple inability to comply is the issue. "Unable to comply" is more appropriate when external factors prevent compliance, rather than a conscious decision to resist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not to comply" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase indicating the negation of compliance. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts where rules, orders, or requests are not followed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not to comply" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to express a decision or action that involves not following a rule, law, or request. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across diverse contexts, especially in news, science, and academic writing. While generally neutral, its formality can vary. When writing, ensure the context clearly specifies what is not being complied with to avoid ambiguity. For more formal or nuanced expressions, alternatives like "refuse to obey" or "fail to adhere" can be considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to refuse to obey

This alternative uses stronger language by directly stating a refusal, emphasizing the intention behind the non-compliance.

to disregard the rules

Focuses on ignoring established rules or regulations, highlighting the act of overlooking or neglecting guidelines.

to fail to adhere

Emphasizes a lack of adherence or attachment to a standard or requirement, indicating a less forceful stance.

to resist compliance

Highlights active resistance to the act of complying, showcasing opposition rather than passive non-compliance.

to be in defiance of

Conveys a sense of open rebellion or opposition to authority, adding a layer of confrontational disagreement.

to flout the requirements

Suggests a disregard for and active violation of specific requirements, with an implication of disdain or contempt.

to ignore the regulations

Focuses on the act of consciously overlooking regulations, implying a deliberate choice to bypass established rules.

to balk at conformity

Highlights a reluctance or unwillingness to conform to expectations, suggesting a personal or ideological opposition.

to opt out of adherence

Implies a voluntary choice to not adhere to something, suggesting a conscious decision to detach or disengage.

to stand in opposition

This alternative highlights a stance of direct disagreement or resistance to a particular law or rule.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "not to comply" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "to refuse to obey" or "to fail to adhere". These options offer a more professional and serious connotation.

When is it appropriate to use "not to comply"?

Use "not to comply" when describing a deliberate decision to disobey or disregard a rule, law, or request. It implies a conscious choice against following established guidelines.

What's the difference between "refuse to comply" and "not to comply"?

"Refuse to comply" suggests a more active and explicit rejection. "Not to comply" can be used in contexts where the refusal is implied or less direct, but the active implication of not doing it.

What are some less confrontational ways to express "not to comply"?

If you want to soften the tone, you might consider phrases like "fail to meet the requirements" or "unable to adhere to". These suggest a lack of compliance without necessarily implying defiance.