Adhere to: meaning, definitions and examples

This phrase is often used in formal or professional settings to describe strictly following laws, rules, or guidelines.

• Employees must adhere to the company's code of conduct
• Students are expected to adhere to the university's regulations

This is a more general and versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate imitating or obeying rules, guidelines, or instructions.

• You should always follow the doctor's advice
• The students follow the teacher's instructions carefully

This phrase is used to emphasize submission to laws, rules, or guidelines. It can also sound formal and authoritative.

• All participants must abide by the contest rules
• We need to ensure that everyone abides by the new policy

This phrase is used in legal, corporate, or regulatory contexts, often to indicate meeting requirements or standards.

• Businesses must comply with health and safety regulations
• It is essential for contractors to comply with building codes

This phrase is less formal and often used in everyday conversation to indicate continuing with a plan, rule, or agreement.

• She decided to stick to her diet plan despite the temptations
• We should stick to our meeting schedule

Formal situations where you need to show compliance with rules, plans, or principles.

• Employees must adhere to the company's code of conduct
• The team strictly adhered to the project timeline

Casual situations involving things physically attaching to each other or metaphorically remaining close to something or someone.

• The sticker won't stick to the wall
• Let's stick together during the trip

Describing a strong connection or attachment, often emotional or chemical in nature.

• The mother and child have a special bond
• The glue creates a strong bond between the two pieces of wood

Situations where someone or something is holding onto something tightly, often due to fear or need for security. It can have a slightly negative connotation if it implies desperation.

• The child clung to his mother's side in the crowded room
• She clings to the hope that things will get better