Word

accordance

noun C1

UK /əˈkɔː.dəns/

US /əˈkoɹ.dəns/

Meanings

noun

agreement or consistency with a rule, law, standard, plan, or request (often in the phrase “in accordance with”)

noun

harmony or agreement between people or groups

Definition

Accordance is the state of being in agreement with a rule, plan, or principle.

Accordance means that something matches or follows a rule, law, standard, or request. It is most often used in the phrase “in accordance with” to show that an action is done correctly and officially. In formal writing, it helps connect decisions or actions to the authority behind them. It can also mean general agreement between people, though this is less common.

Examples

In accordance with the company’s guidelines, I submitted my report before the deadline.
In accordance with your request, you will receive the revised draft by Friday.
The committee acted in accordance with its mandate, even though the decision was unpopular.
In accordance with her supervisor’s instructions, she archived the files and updated the record system.
They adjusted the schedule in accordance with the venue’s safety requirements.

Common mistake

Learners often say “according to” when they mean “in accordance with,” but “in accordance with” emphasizes compliance rather than simply reporting information.