how to use "adhere to" in English

 The phrasal verb "adhere to" in English means to stick firmly to a surface or substance, or more commonly, to follow a rule, agreement, belief, or principle closely and exactly.

Here's how to use it correctly:

1. Meaning: Stick Physically

In its literal sense, "adhere to" means to stick or fasten firmly to a surface.

• Structure: Subject + adhere to + Noun (the surface)
• Example 1: The sticker adhered to the window.
• Example 2: Make sure the bandage adheres to your skin properly.
• Example 3: Dust particles can adhere to electronic screens.

2. Meaning: Follow Rules, Agreements, Principles

More commonly, "adhere to" is used figuratively to mean following or obeying something strictly.

• Structure: Subject + adhere to + Noun (the rule, agreement, principle, etc.)
• Example 1: All participants must adhere to the safety regulations.
• Example 2: The company has a strict policy that all employees must adhere to.
• Example 3: We believe in adhering to our core values.
• Example 4: The two countries signed a treaty and promised to adhere to its terms.
• Example 5: It's important to adhere to a healthy diet.
• Example 6: The paint didn't adhere to the wall properly because the surface wasn't prepared. (Here, it's used figuratively to mean "didn't stay on" or "didn't follow the expected behavior").

Key Points to Remember:

• Always followed by a noun or pronoun: "Adhere to" is a transitive phrasal verb that always takes an object.
• Implies strictness: It suggests a firm and close following of something.
• Common contexts: Rules, regulations, policies, laws, agreements, principles, beliefs, plans, schedules, diets, etc.

Synonyms for the Figurative Meaning:

• Follow
• Obey
• Comply with
• Abide by
• Stick to
• Uphold
• Observe
• Respect

In summary, "adhere to" is a useful phrase for expressing the idea of sticking physically or figuratively to something. Pay attention to the context to understand whether it's being used literally or figuratively.