Adhere: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in formal contexts to describe following rules, principles, or sticking to a surface.

• Employees must adhere to company policies
• The glue will adhere to the surface within minutes

Common in everyday language, refers to attaching or adhering something to a surface, or persisting with an action or belief.

• He used tape to stick the poster to the wall
• If you stick with your plan, you will succeed

Describes holding on tightly, both physically and metaphorically. Often implies dependency or difficulty in letting go, and can have a negative connotation.

• The child clung to her mother's leg
• She clings to the past and finds it hard to move on

Often used to describe forming strong connections, especially emotional ties between people, but can also refer to physical sticking.

• The experience helped form a strong bond between the teammates
• The adhesive bonds the metal parts tightly

Use when expressing the idea of sticking strictly to a rule, plan, or belief.

• The team needs to adhere to the project guidelines to ensure consistency.
• She always adheres to her moral principles regardless of the situation.

Utilized generally to indicate going along with or imitating something, such as a rule, advice, or a path.

• Make sure you follow the instructions carefully.
• He followed his mentor's advice on career development.

Used primarily in the context of following commands or rules, often with a sense of authority or obligation. It sometimes has a negative connotation implying lack of choice.

• Children should obey their parents.
• The soldiers were trained to obey orders without question.

Best for situations where someone is meeting a requirement or fulfilling a request.

• Employees must comply with company policies at all times.
• Drivers are required to comply with traffic regulations.