Adhere vs. Comply: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 16, 2023
Adhere refers to stick to something or follow closely (as in principles or rules). Comply refers to act in accordance with a wish, command, or rule.
Key Differences
Adhere typically means to stick firmly to a surface or to be devotedly loyal to a set of rules, beliefs, or principles. It often implies a sense of attachment or dedication. Comply, on the other hand, suggests a response or obedience to a specific request, command, or regulation, often from a position of subordination or necessity.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
When one adheres to a policy or principle, it usually involves a choice or commitment to follow that guideline closely. It suggests a deeper, sometimes personal, alignment with the set of rules or beliefs. In contrast, to comply with a rule or command often comes from an external requirement or pressure, without necessarily implying personal agreement or commitment.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere can also carry a metaphorical meaning of being loyal or faithful to a cause, concept, or group. It is about maintaining a consistent support or allegiance. Comply, however, is more about conforming to a specific demand, order, or set of instructions, often with an implication of doing so to avoid negative consequences.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
In terms of usage, adhere tends to be used in contexts where the focus is on the quality of the attachment or loyalty. Comply is more commonly used in legal, regulatory, or hierarchical contexts, where there is an expectation or requirement to follow certain rules or orders.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere suggests a voluntary and often proactive commitment, whereas comply implies a reactive or obligatory action in response to a specific requirement or directive. The choice between the two depends on the nature of the commitment or obedience being described.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
To stick firmly to or follow closely
To act in accordance with a command
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Usage
Symbolic, emotional attachment
Legal, regulatory, hierarchical obedience
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
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Adhere and Comply Definitions
Adhere
To follow or uphold a set of rules or principles closely.
She chose to adhere to her family's traditions.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Comply
To act according to a command or request.
The employees must comply with the new regulations.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere
To stick firmly to a surface.
The label must adhere to the package securely.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere
To be devoted or loyal to a belief or cause.
They adhere to the principles of non-violence.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
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Comply
To yield to a wish or command.
The students complied with the teacher's instructions.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere
To remain attached or committed to something.
He continues to adhere to his strict diet.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Comply
To meet specified standards.
The product was designed to comply with safety norms.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere
To closely follow a particular practice.
The craftsmen adhere to traditional methods.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Comply
To conform to a requirement.
To avoid fines, they had to comply with environmental regulations.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Adhere
To stick fast to something; stay attached
Glue makes the wallpaper adhere to the wall.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Comply
To act in accordance with another's command, request, rule, or wish
The patient complied with the physician's orders.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Adhere
To remain devoted to or be in support of something
Adhered to her beliefs.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Adhere
To carry out a plan, scheme, or operation without deviation
We will adhere to our plan.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Comply
To yield assent; to accord; to acquiesce, agree, consent; to adapt oneself, to conform.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Comply
To yield assent; to accord; agree, or acquiesce; to adapt one's self; to consent or conform; - usually followed by with.
Yet this be sure, in nothing to comply,Scandalous or forbidden in our law.
They did servilely comply with the people in worshiping God by sensible images.
He that complies against his willIs of his own opinion still.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
Comply
Act in accordance with someone's rules, commands, or wishes;
He complied with my instructions
You must comply or else!
Follow these simple rules
Abide by the rules
Sumera Saeed
Dec 09, 2022
FAQs
Can adhere be used in a physical sense?
Yes, like a sticker adhering to a surface.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Is adhering similar to agreeing?
Not exactly; it's more about consistently following or upholding something.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
What does it mean to adhere to a tradition?
To faithfully follow and uphold that tradition.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
What does adhere mean?
To stick to something or follow a set of rules or principles closely.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
What does comply mean?
To act in accordance with a rule, command, or request.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can you adhere to a philosophy?
Yes, it means to closely follow its principles.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can a company comply with guidelines?
Yes, particularly legal or industry standards.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is complying always mandatory?
Often, especially in legal or regulatory contexts.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Does adhere imply a personal choice?
Generally, it suggests a voluntary commitment or belief.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
What's an example of complying with a policy?
Employees following a company’s safety policy.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Is it possible to adhere to a diet?
Yes, meaning to follow the diet’s guidelines strictly.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
How does one adhere to a code of conduct?
By consistently following its guidelines.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Can compliance be voluntary?
It can be, but it’s often due to external requirements.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
What happens if you don’t comply with laws?
It can lead to legal penalties or repercussions.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Does comply suggest a lack of choice?
It can, especially if it's in response to an authoritative directive.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Does adhere involve actions or beliefs?
It can involve both, depending on the context.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Is it common to comply with requests in a workplace?
Yes, especially if they align with workplace rules or expectations.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Can adhere have an emotional aspect?
Yes, it often involves emotional loyalty or commitment.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is comply used in formal settings?
Yes, particularly in legal, official, or corporate contexts.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
