Of course. Here is a complete, in-depth article on the topic of "in regard to" versus "in regards to."
In Regard To vs. In Regards To: A Guide to Using the Correct Phrase
Have you ever hesitated before writing an email or a formal letter, unsure whether to use "in regard to" or "in regards to"? This common grammatical point often causes confusion, even for experienced writers. The stakes feel high because using the wrong phrase can subtly undermine your credibility. The good news is that the distinction is straightforward, and mastering it will make your writing more polished and professional. This article will clarify the correct usage, explain the source of the confusion, and provide clear guidelines to ensure you use the right phrase every time Small thing, real impact..
The Short Answer: Which One is Correct?
The simple, prescriptive rule is that "in regard to" is the correct and standard phrase. It is used to mean "concerning," "about," or "with respect to." The phrase "in regards to" is widely considered incorrect in formal writing, although it is frequently used in informal speech and writing Simple, but easy to overlook..
Think of the noun "regard" as a singular concept—a single focus or attention directed toward something. That's why, you refer to something in one singular "regard," not multiple "regards.g." The plural form "regards" is typically used only in the specific phrase "as regards" or "in regards to" when meaning "best wishes" (e., "give my regards to your family").
A Deeper Dive: The Grammatical Explanation
To understand why "in regard to" is preferred, it helps to look at the grammar. The preposition "in" is followed by a noun, which then connects to the preposition "to." The noun here is "regard.
- In regard to: Here, "regard" functions as a singular noun meaning "attention" or "consideration." The phrase literally means "in the state of attention/consideration toward something." This is the grammatically sound construction.
- In regards to: This phrase incorrectly treats "regard" as a plural noun. While "regards" is a valid plural noun (as in "my regards"), it does not fit in this specific prepositional context. The plural "regards" implies multiple acts of regarding, which is unnecessarily complex and illogical for this meaning.
The Exception: "As Regards" Good to know here that the plural form is correct in the phrase "as regards." This is a fixed idiomatic expression that also means "concerning" or "with respect to." For example: "As regards your proposal, we have decided to move forward." While you could use "in regard to" here, "as regards" is perfectly acceptable and common.
Why the Confusion Exists: The Descriptive Reality
If "in regard to" is correct, why do so many people use "in regards to"? The answer lies in the difference between prescriptive grammar (the rules we should follow) and descriptive grammar (the rules we actually follow based on common usage).
- Analogy with Other Phrases: The confusion often stems from similar-sounding phrases where the plural is correct, such as "in regards to" being mistakenly patterned after "in terms of" or "in efforts to." Our brains naturally look for patterns, and this one is a false trail.
- Informal Speech and Writing: In everyday conversation and informal writing (like text messages or social media), "in regards to" is incredibly common. It has become an accepted part of the vernacular. The problem arises when this informal usage is carried over into professional or academic contexts where precision is valued.
- Lack of Clear Guidance: Many people simply never learn the rule. It's a subtle point of grammar that is often overlooked in basic English education, leading to widespread uncertainty.
Practical Guidelines for Usage
To ensure you make the right choice, follow these simple guidelines:
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In Formal Writing (Academic, Business, Professional): Always use "in regard to." This includes cover letters, business emails, reports, essays, and any document where a professional tone is important.
- Incorrect: "In regards to your application, we will be in touch."
- Correct: "In regard to your application, we will be in touch."
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In Informal Writing and Speech: While "in regard to" is still grammatically correct, "in regards to" is frequently used and generally understood. The choice here is about matching your audience. If you are texting a friend, it will likely go unnoticed. Even so, even in casual emails to colleagues, sticking with "in regard to" is a safe bet to maintain a professional image.
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When in Doubt, Use a Synonym: The easiest way to avoid the issue altogether is to use a different word. Instead of either phrase, you can confidently use:
- Regarding (e.g., "Regarding your question...")
- Concerning (e.g., "Concerning the budget...")
- With respect to (e.g., "With respect to the deadline...")
- About (e.g., "About the meeting tomorrow...")
Quick-Reference Table
| Phrase | Correct? And | Usage Context | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| In regard to | Yes (Formal & Informal) | The standard, grammatically preferred phrase for all contexts. | "I am writing in regard to the contract we discussed." |
| In regards to | No (Formal) / Yes (Informal) | Considered incorrect in formal writing but very common in casual speech and writing. | "Just following up in regards to the invoice.And " (Better to use "in regard to" or "regarding"). |
| As regards | Yes | A fixed, idiomatic phrase meaning the same as "in regard to." | "As regards your feedback, we will implement the changes." |
| Regarding | Yes | A simpler, often preferred alternative that avoids the confusion entirely. | "Regarding your feedback, we will implement the changes. |
Easier said than done, but still worth knowing.
Conclusion: Confidence in Your Writing
The distinction between "in regard to" and "in regards to" is a small detail, but it is one that reflects a command of standard English grammar. In real terms, while "in regards to" is a persistent feature of informal language, "in regard to" remains the gold standard for clear, professional, and polished writing. Practically speaking, by remembering that "regard" is a singular noun in this context, you can confidently choose the correct phrase. The next time you are drafting an important email or document, you can use this knowledge to write with assurance, knowing you have made the grammatically correct choice.
Put It Into Practice: A Quick Self-Check
Before you hit send on your next important message, take three seconds to run this mental diagnostic on any sentence using these phrases:
- Find the phrase. Locate "in regard to," "in regards to," or "as regards."
- Apply the "Singular Rule." Remind yourself: Regard is a singular noun here.
- Swap the synonym. Mentally replace the phrase with "regarding."
- Does the sentence still flow perfectly?
- Yes: You are safe. Keep "in regard to" (or just use "regarding").
- No: Rework the sentence structure.
Test Yourself: Which of these sentences uses the standard formal construction?
A) "I am calling in regards to the noise complaint." B) "I am calling in regard to the noise complaint." C) "I am calling regarding the noise complaint.
Answer: B and C are both standard formal English. A is considered non-standard in professional contexts Surprisingly effective..
Final Word
Mastering "in regard to" versus "in regards to" is less about memorizing a rigid rule and more about understanding the underlying grammar: regard functions as a singular noun meaning "attention" or "consideration." Just as you would not write "in attentions to" or "in considerations to," the singular form is the logical choice.
When you choose "in regard to"—or better yet, the streamlined "regarding"—you signal to your reader that you value precision. In professional communication, that signal builds trust before you’ve even made your main point.
