Compliance

Definition

Compliance refers to the act of conforming to or following rules, standards, laws, or requirements. It often describes adherence to regulations set by authorities, organizations, or guidelines.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈplaɪəns/
• Respelling: kuhm-PLY-uhns

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈplaɪəns/
• Respelling: kuhm-PLY-uhns

Etymology

The word "compliance" originates from the Medieval Latin term "compliantia," meaning "act of yielding." It comes from "complere," which means "to fulfill" or "accomplish." The term was adopted into English in the late 16th century to indicate submission or adherence to rules or expectations.

Derivatives

• Comply (verb)
• Compliant (adjective)
• Compliancy (noun)
• Noncompliance (noun)
• Noncompliant (adjective)

Synonyms

• Obedience
• Adherence
• Conformity

Antonyms

• Noncompliance
• Rebellion
• Defiance

Usage

The noun "compliance" is commonly used in legal, business, and regulatory contexts. It often refers to the act of following laws, rules, or policies, such as "The company ensured compliance with safety regulations." It can also describe the behavior of individuals who follow instructions or conform to norms, such as "His compliance with the guidelines helped avoid any penalties."

Related Terms

• Regulation: A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.
• Conformity: Compliance with standards, rules, or laws.
• Obligation: A duty or commitment to act in a certain way.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of conforming to rules or standards: Refers to following laws, regulations, or policies as required by authorities or organizations.
  • Example: "The factory must maintain compliance with environmental regulations."
• The state of being obedient or submissive: Describes a person or entity’s willingness to follow commands or guidelines.
  • Example: "The school enforces strict compliance with its dress code."
• Behavior that aligns with societal norms or expectations: Refers to acting in a way that conforms to socially accepted rules or standards.
  • Example: "The employee’s compliance with company policies helped maintain workplace harmony."