# conforming

/kənˈfɔɹmɪŋ/ (US) · /kənfˈɔːmɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conforming
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

behaving in a way that matches the rules or expectations of a group. You use this to describe someone who follows the crowd instead of being different.

For teachers: behaving in accordance with prevailing social standards, attitudes, or practices. Often used to describe individuals who adhere to established norms rather than expressing individuality.

## Examples

- He is a very conforming person who never breaks the rules.
- In a highly conforming corporate culture, employees may feel pressured to dress and speak exactly like their managers.
- The pressure of living in a small, conforming town can be stifling for creative individuals who wish to challenge traditional social structures or aesthetic conventions.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'become' or 'remain', or attributively before a noun like 'behavior' or 'personality'.

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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.