Vocabulary Spotlight

Adhere

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To stick firmly to a surface or substance, or to follow rules or beliefs faithfully.

“Doctors must adhere to strict guidelines when treating patients.”

Pronunciation

[ad-HEER]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Stick
Cling
Follow
Comply
Obey

Antonyms

Detach
Ignore
Disregard
Oppose
Separate

Related Words

Bond
Attachment
Loyalty

Word Origin

“Adhere” originates from the Latin “adhaerere,” meaning “to stick to.”

Word Family

Verb: Adhere – To stick or remain attached.

Noun: Adherence – The act of following or sticking to something.

Adjective: Adhesive – Having the quality of sticking or holding fast.

Mnemonics

Think “Add Here to Stick” – Adhere means to stick firmly to something or follow it closely.

Industry-specific Usage

Healthcare

Healthcare providers must adhere to regulations for patient safety.

Construction

In construction, materials must adhere to surfaces for structural integrity.

Law

Adherence to laws and guidelines is crucial in legal practice.

In Context

Adhere is used to describe both physical attachment and loyalty to principles, rules, or guidelines.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is a synonym of “Adhere”?

Detach
Ignore
Comply
Separate

‘Comply’ is correct as it means to follow or stick to something.

2. Fill in the blank: In order to maintain safety, workers must _______ to the guidelines.

adhere
detach
ignore
disregard

‘Adhere’ is appropriate as it means to follow or comply with rules or instructions.

3. In which context would “adhere” be MOST appropriate?

Breaking rules
Following regulations closely
Detaching from a surface
Ignoring instructions

‘Following regulations closely’ is correct as adhere means to comply with or follow rules.