C1verbformal3K

UK/["/ədˈhɪə(r)/","/ədˈhɪəz/","/ədˈhɪəd/","/ədˈhɪərɪŋ/"]/US/["/ədˈhɪr/","/ədˈhɪrz/","/ədˈhɪrd/","/ədˈhɪrɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Adhere

to stick to something

In simple words: To stick to something or follow it closely.

Adhere in a sentence

  • Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells.
  • Clean the surface first, or the paint will not adhere.
  • There was oil adhering to the bird’s feathers.
  • The tiles may not adhere properly if you do not use the correct glue.

How to use Adhere

Used in formal contexts, often in legal or technical language. It's appropriate when discussing rules, guidelines, or sticky substances, but less common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

adhere + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a-deer' — imagine a deer sticking closely to its mother.

Related words

Collocations with Adhere

Synonyms for Adhere

Opposites of Adhere

Common mistakes with Adhere

  • Confused with 'adhere to' vs 'stick to' — they are not interchangeable.
  • Using 'adhere' without a clear object — it needs to specify what is being adhered to.
  • Assuming 'adhere' can only refer to physical sticking — it can also refer to following rules.

Compare Adhere with Stick, Attach, Follow, Comply, Obey

Adhere appears in

Adhere in other languages

More words like Adhere

People also search for

  • Adhere meaning
  • meaning of Adhere
  • Adhere definition
  • define Adhere
  • what does Adhere mean
  • Adhere means
  • how to use Adhere

Frequently asked questions about Adhere

What does Adhere mean?

To stick to something or follow it closely.

What is the definition of Adhere?

to stick to something

How do you use Adhere in a sentence?

Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells.

Can you give another example of Adhere?

Clean the surface first, or the paint will not adhere.

What are synonyms for Adhere?

Common alternatives include stick, attach, follow, comply, obey.

What is the opposite of Adhere?

Opposite meanings include detach, separate, disobey.

What words go with Adhere?

It commonly pairs with closely, firmly, rigidly, to.

What are common mistakes when using Adhere?

Confused with 'adhere to' vs 'stick to' — they are not interchangeable. Using 'adhere' without a clear object — it needs to specify what is being adhered to. Assuming 'adhere' can only refer to physical sticking — it can also refer to following rules.

How do you pronounce Adhere?

US: /["/ədˈhɪr/","/ədˈhɪrz/","/ədˈhɪrd/","/ədˈhɪrɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ədˈhɪə(r)/","/ədˈhɪəz/","/ədˈhɪəd/","/ədˈhɪərɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Adhere formal or informal?

"Adhere" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Adhere?

Used in formal contexts, often in legal or technical language. It's appropriate when discussing rules, guidelines, or sticky substances, but less common in casual conversation.

What CEFR level is Adhere?

"Adhere" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.