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Conformity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conformity

[kษ™nหˆfษ”หmษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social behavior

Conformity is the act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms. It involves adjusting one's thoughts and actions to align with the standards set by a social group.

Synonyms

accordance, compliance, obedience.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conformity

Used when referring to the act of aligning behaviors, beliefs, or norms to match those of a group or standard.

  • Her conformity to the school's dress code was appreciated
  • Social conformity can sometimes suppress individuality
compliance

Refers to the act of adhering to regulations, rules, or requests, often used in formal or legal contexts.

  • The factory was shut down due to non-compliance with safety regulations
  • Compliance with data protection laws is mandatory
obedience

Used when someone follows orders, commands, or authority figures, often to express a hierarchical relationship.

  • The dog was trained for complete obedience
  • Blind obedience to authority can be dangerous
accordance

Best used when an action or situation is in agreement or harmony with rules, laws, or requests.

  • The project was completed in accordance with the company's guidelines
  • His actions were in accordance with his values

Examples of usage

  • Peer pressure often leads to conformity among teenagers.
  • Conformity can be both positive, such as following traffic rules, and negative, such as succumbing to negative peer influence.
Context #2 | Noun

psychology

In psychology, conformity is a type of social influence involving a change in belief or behavior to fit in with a group. It can be influenced by factors such as group size, unanimity, and cohesion.

Synonyms

adherence, alignment, conformance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conformity

Use 'conformity' to describe behavior that follows accepted norms or rules. It often implies compliance with societal or group expectations.

  • His strict conformity to office policies earned him a promotion.
  • There is a strong sense of conformity in the military.
adherence

Apply 'adherence' when talking about sticking to rules, plans, or guidelines. It signifies a committed and often consistent following.

  • The company's adherence to safety regulations helped avoid many accidents.
  • Her strict adherence to the diet plan showed impressive results.
conformance

'Conformance' is used in a technical or regulatory context to denote following standardized rules or specifications.

  • The product was tested for conformance with international safety standards.
  • Conformance to industry regulations is mandatory for all manufacturers.
alignment

Use 'alignment' when discussing how strategies, goals, or actions line up with each other. It's often used in organizational or strategic contexts.

  • The new strategy was developed in alignment with the company's long-term goals.
  • There needs to be better alignment between the departments to improve efficiency.

Examples of usage

  • The Asch conformity experiments demonstrated the power of social pressure in shaping individual behavior.
  • Conformity can lead individuals to go against their own better judgment in order to fit in with a particular group.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that people often change their beliefs to align with group opinions due to peer pressure.
  • The classic Asch conformity experiments in the 1950s illustrated how individuals would give wrong answers just to fit in with the group.
  • Conformity can lead to positive social cohesion but may also stifle individuality and critical thinking.

Culture

  • In many cultures, especially collectivist ones, conformity is valued and individuals learn to prioritize group harmony.
  • Fashion trends often exemplify conformity, where people dress similarly to be part of a social group.
  • Social media influences conformity by promoting certain lifestyles and behaviors as popular or desirable.

Literature

  • In literature, conformity is often portrayed as a theme that showcases the struggle between individuality and societal expectations.
  • Famous works like 'Fahrenheit 451' by Ray Bradbury critique conformity as a means to suppress personal freedom.
  • Authors like George Orwell in '1984' explore extreme forms of conformity enforced by oppressive government regimes.

Science

  • Research in sociology reveals how conformity impacts group dynamics, decision-making, and the formation of social norms.
  • Studies indicate that even slight alterations in group behavior can trigger major changes in individual conformity.
  • Neuroscience has demonstrated that our brains respond to social approval, providing a biological basis for the urge to conform.

Origin of 'conformity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'conformare', meaning โ€˜to shape togetherโ€™.
  • It was first recorded in English in the early 15th century, originally referring to adherence to rules or standards.
  • Over time, it evolved to encompass not just obedience to laws, but also social behaviors and attitudes.

The word 'conformity' originated from the Latin word 'conformitatem', which means correspondence in form, manner, or character. The concept of conformity has been studied in various fields such as sociology, psychology, and anthropology, highlighting its significance in social behavior and group dynamics.

See also: conformably, conformance, conformation, conformer, conformist, nonconformer, nonconforming, nonconformist, nonconformists, nonconformities, nonconformity.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,519 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.