# conformity

/kənˈfɔɹməti/ (US) · /kənfˈɔːmɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conformity
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. following social rules

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. obeying rules or laws

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

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

For teachers: 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'.

### 3. similarity in form

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The school uniform encourages conformity among the students.
- In many corporate environments, there is a strong pressure toward conformity in both dress and professional opinion.
- Sociologists often study the tension between individual expression and the social conformity required to maintain a stable, functioning community without constant conflict.

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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.