C2verb formal 5K

Abide

UK //əˈbaɪd// US //əˈbaɪd// Pronunciation

Definition

To accept or act in accordance with a rule or decision.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To accept or follow a rule or decision.

Examples

• You must abide by the regulations in this agreement.
• The citizens are expected to abide by the laws of their country.
• He promised to abide by the committee's decision.
• Many students find it hard to abide by the school rules.
• They agreed to abide by the terms of the contract.

Usage notes

Commonly used in legal or formal contexts. Less frequent in everyday conversation. Often paired with 'by' when referring to rules.

Grammar pattern

abide + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a-bide', think of 'you abide by the rules'.

Collocations

• abide by the rules
• abide by the decision
• abide by the law

Synonyms

• follow
• observe
• uphold
• accept
• submit

Antonyms

• disobey
• ignore
• reject

Common mistakes

• Confusing with 'abandon'.
• Using it incorrectly with nouns instead of actions.
• Mixing up past forms; 'abode' is archaic.