Many English learners and even native speakers feel confused about with regard to or with regards to. These phrases look very similar, so people often think both are correct in all cases. In real writing, however, one form is more accepted and more formal than the other.
This small difference can affect how professional, clear, and correct your writing feels. You may see both versions in emails, articles, and legal documents, which adds to the confusion. Understanding the correct usage helps you write with confidence. It also helps you avoid common grammar mistakes that teachers and editors notice quickly. This article explains with regard to or with regards to in very simple words. By the end, you will know which one to use, when to use it, and why it matters.
What does “with regard to” mean?
“With regard to” means about, concerning, or related to something. It is a formal phrase that often appears in professional, academic, or official writing. When you use it, you point the reader’s attention to a specific topic.
For example:
- With regard to your application, we will contact you soon.
- She asked a question with regard to company policy.
In both sentences, the phrase connects the sentence to a topic. It works like “about” but sounds more formal. Because of this tone, writers often choose it for emails, reports, and notices.
What does “with regards to” mean?
“With regards to” looks very similar, but it adds an -s to the word regard. This small change causes big debate. Many people use “with regards to” in everyday writing and speech. However, grammar guides usually say that this form is less correct in formal writing.
For example:
- With regards to your message, thank you for reaching out.
This sentence sounds natural to many readers, but strict grammar rules prefer “with regard to” instead. “With regards to” is common, but it is often marked as informal or unnecessary.
Which one is grammatically correct?
The short answer is simple: “With regard to” is grammatically correct and preferred.
The word regard in this phrase acts like a noun meaning “reference” or “relation.” It does not need to be plural. Adding an -s does not add meaning, so many experts see it as incorrect or careless.
That said, “with regards to” appears often in modern English, especially in casual writing. Because language changes over time, some people accept it. Still, if you want safe and correct writing, choose “with regard to.”
Why do people get confused?
People get confused because English already has the word regards in other phrases. For example:
- Give my regards to your family.
- Best regards, (at the end of an email)
In these cases, regards is correct because it means greetings or good wishes. Writers then assume the plural also works in “with regards to.” This is a logical mistake, but grammar does not always follow logic.
“With regard to” vs “regarding”
Many writers ask if they can replace with regard to with regarding. The answer is yes, in most cases.
Compare these sentences:
- With regard to the meeting, it is canceled.
- Regarding the meeting, it is canceled.
Both are correct and clear. “Regarding” is shorter and less formal. If you want simple writing, “regarding” is often the better choice.
“With regard to” vs “about”
Another common question is whether “with regard to” is better than “about.” The meaning is almost the same, but the tone is different.
- I am writing about your order. (simple, casual)
- I am writing with regard to your order. (formal, professional)
Choose based on your audience. For friends and casual messages, “about” works well. For formal writing, “with regard to” sounds more polite.
Common mistakes with “with regard to or with regards to”
Adding an unnecessary “s”
The most common mistake is adding -s to regard. Writers think plural is needed, but it is not.
Incorrect:
- With regards to your request, we agree.
Correct:
- With regard to your request, we agree.
Using it too often
Some writers repeat this phrase many times in one text. This makes writing heavy and boring.
Instead of repeating it, try alternatives like:
- about
- regarding
- concerning
- related to
Using it in very casual writing
Using “with regard to” in a friendly chat can sound too stiff.
Example:
- With regard to lunch, let’s eat later.
This sounds unnatural. A better option is:
- About lunch, let’s eat later.
American English vs British English
In both American and British English, “with regard to” is the preferred form. Grammar rules do not change here. Style guides on both sides support the singular form.
“With regards to” appears in both varieties, but mostly in informal writing. British English sometimes allows it more freely in speech, but formal writing still favors “with regard to.”
So, no matter which type of English you use, the safest option stays the same.
Is “with regards to” ever acceptable?
In very informal writing, many readers accept “with regards to.” Blogs, comments, and personal emails often include it. However, teachers, editors, and examiners usually mark it wrong.
If your goal is clear and correct English, it is better to avoid it.
Idiomatic expressions related to “regard”
English uses the word regard in many expressions. Knowing them helps you avoid confusion.
Examples:
- In this regard (in this matter)
- In regard to (similar to with regard to)
- Give my regards (send greetings)
Each expression has its own grammar rule. Mixing them can lead to errors.
“In regard to” vs “with regard to”
“In regard to” and “with regard to” mean the same thing. Both are correct. “With regard to” is slightly more common and sounds smoother to many writers.
Examples:
- In regard to your complaint, action was taken.
- With regard to your complaint, action was taken.
You can use either, but consistency matters.
Practical tips for correct usage
- Use with regard to in formal writing.
- Avoid with regards to in exams, reports, and emails.
- Replace it with regarding if you want simple style.
- Do not repeat the phrase too often.
- Check if about sounds more natural.
- Read the sentence aloud to test flow.
- Remember that regard stays singular here.
Clear examples in full sentences
- With regard to the new rules, employees must comply.
- The manager spoke with regard to future plans.
- There is confusion with regard to the schedule.
Each sentence shows correct grammar and natural flow.
Why correct usage matters
Using correct phrases shows care and attention. Small grammar choices affect how readers judge your writing. Correct usage builds trust and clarity. It also reduces misunderstanding.
When you choose the right form, your message feels polished and confident.
Reflection on grammar and writing choices
This article applies clear grammar rules, especially noun form, preposition use, and sentence balance. Sentences vary in length to keep reading easy and smooth. Active voice explains rules clearly, while passive voice adds formality where needed. Simple words replace complex ones to improve understanding. Careful repetition of the keyword supports clarity without overuse. These techniques help writers improve accuracy, flow, and confidence while learning how careful word choice strengthens writing quality.
Conclusion
The choice between with regard to or with regards to seems small, but it matters. “With regard to” is the correct and preferred form in standard English. “With regards to” is common but informal and often discouraged. By understanding the grammar behind the phrase, you can write with more confidence. Remember to choose the phrase that fits your tone and audience. Simple awareness of this rule helps you avoid a common mistake and improve your writing overall.
FAQs
1. Is “with regard to” correct English?
Yes, it is correct and widely accepted.
2. Is “with regards to” wrong?
It is common but usually considered incorrect in formal writing.
3. Which one should I use in exams?
Always use “with regard to.”
4. Can I use “regarding” instead?
Yes, it is correct and simpler.
5. Is “with regard to” formal?
Yes, it sounds formal and professional.
6. Do Americans and British use it differently?
No, both prefer “with regard to.”
7. Why do people add an “s” to regard?
Because of confusion with other phrases like “best regards.”
8. Can I use “about” instead?
Yes, in casual writing.
9. Is “in regard to” also correct?
Yes, it means the same thing.
10. How can I remember the correct form?
Remember that regard stays singular in this phrase.
