# adherence

/ədˈhɪɹəns/ (US) · /ɐdhˈiəɹəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adherence
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

the act of sticking to a rule, plan, or belief. You use this word when someone follows instructions or stays loyal to a cause.

For teachers: the action of sticking to a rule, plan, or belief; compliance with a standard or loyalty to a cause.

## Examples

- Her strict adherence to the diet helped her lose weight.
- The doctor praised the patient's adherence to the daily medication schedule.
- Success in the project depended less on technical skill and more on the team's unwavering adherence to the agreed timeline.

## Usage notes

- Typically followed by the preposition 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.