abide

Verb

UK: /əˈbaɪd/

US: /əˈbaɪd/


Definition

To abide means to follow rules or stay with something, even if it’s not easy. It’s like sticking with something no matter what.

To abide means to accept, follow, or comply with rules, laws, or decisions, even when it's challenging or inconvenient. It can also mean to endure or tolerate something over a period of time.

To abide means to follow rules or do what you are asked to do. It’s like listening and doing what someone says.

Examples and Usage

▶️ Following Rules or Instructions

Example: You should abide by your teacher’s rules in the classroom.

  • Explanation: In this sentence, "abide" means to follow the teacher’s rules and do what they say.

Example: We need to abide by the game rules to make sure everyone plays fairly.

  • Explanation: Here, "abide" means to stick to the game rules so that the game is fair for everyone.

▶️ Following Rules or Decisions

Example: All employees are required to abide by the company's code of conduct.

  • Explanation: Here, "abide" means to follow and adhere to the company's rules and ethical guidelines.

Example: The judge's ruling is final, and all parties must abide by it.

  • Explanation: In this context, "abide" means to accept and comply with the judge's decision.

▶️ Following Rules

Example: You should abide by the rules of the game to play it right.

  • Explanation: In this sentence, "abide" means to follow the game rules so everyone can play fairly.

Example: If you abide by your bedtime, you will feel rested and happy.

  • Explanation: Here, "abide" means to go to bed at the right time, just like your parents say.

How to Use "Abide"

When talking about following or sticking with something:

☑️Example: She abides by the bedtime rules and goes to bed when told.

  • Subject: She
  • Predicate: abides by the bedtime rules and goes to bed when told
    • "abide" (verb meaning to follow)
    • "by the bedtime rules" (prepositional phrase explaining what is followed)

☑️Example: The dog abides by the training commands and listens to its owner.

  • Subject: The dog
  • Predicate: abides by the training commands and listens to its owner
    • "abide" (verb meaning to follow)
    • "by the training commands" (prepositional phrase explaining what is followed)

☑️Example: She abides by her mom’s instructions and helps set the table.

  • Subject: She
  • Predicate: abides by her mom’s instructions and helps set the table
    • "abide" (verb meaning to follow)
    • "by her mom’s instructions" (prepositional phrase explaining what is followed)

☑️Example: The dog abides by the command to sit when its owner says so.

  • Subject: The dog
  • Predicate: abides by the command to sit when its owner says so
    • "abide" (verb meaning to follow)
    • "by the command to sit" (prepositional phrase explaining what is followed)

Detailed Usage

When discussing adherence or compliance:

☑️Example: The contractor must abide by the terms of the contract to ensure project completion.

  • Subject: The contractor
  • Predicate: must abide by the terms of the contract to ensure project completion
    • "abide" (verb meaning to follow or comply)
    • "by the terms of the contract" (prepositional phrase explaining what is followed)

☑️Example: Residents are expected to abide by local noise ordinances to maintain a peaceful community.

  • Subject: Residents
  • Predicate: are expected to abide by local noise ordinances to maintain a peaceful community
    • "abide" (verb meaning to comply with)
    • "by local noise ordinances" (prepositional phrase explaining what is complied with)

More Examples

☑️Example: The students abide by the school rules and do not run in the hallways.

  • Explanation: The students follow the school rules by not running in the hallways.

☑️Example: He abides by the promise to help his friend every day.

  • Explanation: He keeps his promise and helps his friend every day.

☑️Example: The organization abides by international standards to ensure quality and safety.

  • Explanation: The organization follows and adheres to globally recognized standards.

☑️Example: She abides by her personal values and principles in all her professional dealings.

  • Explanation: She consistently adheres to her own ethical standards and beliefs.

☑️Example: The child abides by the rules of sharing toys with friends.

  • Explanation: The child follows the rule of sharing toys.

☑️Example: He abides by the teacher’s instructions during art class.

  • Explanation: He listens to and follows what the teacher says during art class.

Contextual Notes

"Abide" is often used in formal or professional contexts to describe compliance with rules, regulations, or agreements. It conveys a sense of duty or commitment to follow established guidelines or to endure and accept situations.


Synonyms & Similar Words


Antonyms & Near Antonyms