English Reference

Word

conformity

Phoneticscon·form·ity

US/kənˈfɔɹməti/

UK/kənfˈɔːmɪti/

Definitions

01following social rules

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. behaving in the same way as most other people in a group or society.

n. the tendency to align attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours with group norms or social expectations.

“There is a lot of pressure for conformity in some traditional offices.”

“The psychologist argued that social conformity often stems from a deep-seated desire for security and acceptance within a peer group.”

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'to'.

Synonyms

uniformityconventionality

02obeying rules or laws

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Formal

n. the state of following a specific rule, law, or standard.

n. compliance with standards, rules, or laws; the state of being in agreement with a set requirement.

“The new building was designed in conformity with local safety laws.”

“The audit was conducted to ensure strict conformity with international accounting standards across all regional branches.”

Usage

Commonly appears in the fixed phrase 'in conformity with'.

Antonyms

noncomplianceviolation

03similarity in form

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic

n. the state of being similar or the same in shape or type.

n. correspondence in form, manner, or character; the state of being similar or identical.

“The conformity of the houses in this street makes it look very tidy.”

“The architect maintained a strict conformity of style throughout the estate to ensure a harmonious visual experience.”

Etymology

From Middle French conformité.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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