Navigating the nuances of English grammar can often feel like walking a tightrope, with subtle distinctions leading to significant misunderstandings. One such area that frequently trips up even seasoned writers is the correct usage of “in regard” versus “in regards.” This seemingly minor difference can impact the professionalism and clarity of your communication.
Understanding this distinction is not merely about adhering to arbitrary rules; it’s about effective communication and projecting an image of careful attention to detail. Mastering this common pitfall will enhance your credibility in both personal and professional correspondence.
The Singular “Regard”: Its Meaning and Usage
The phrase “in regard” is most commonly used in a specific idiomatic expression: “as regards.” This expression functions as a prepositional phrase, meaning “concerning” or “with respect to.” It’s a formal way to introduce a topic or shift focus within a sentence.
When you see “as regards,” it’s a fixed phrase that should not be altered. For instance, “As regards the new project, we need to discuss the budget.” This construction is standard and grammatically sound.
It’s important to recognize that “as regards” is a complete unit; there’s no need to consider “in regards” when this specific meaning is intended. The singular “regard” in this context refers to a single point of consideration or a specific aspect of a matter.
Another less common, but still correct, usage involves the noun “regard” in the singular form, often appearing in phrases that emphasize consideration or respect. For example, “He spoke in regard to the importance of punctuality.” Here, “in regard to” functions similarly to “in reference to” or “concerning.”
However, this singular usage of “in regard to” is far less frequent than the plural “in regards to” (which is generally considered incorrect) or the idiomatic “as regards.” Many style guides recommend avoiding “in regard to” in favor of simpler alternatives like “regarding” or “concerning” to prevent confusion.
The key takeaway for the singular “regard” is its association with the fixed phrase “as regards” and its less common appearance in “in regard to” when meaning “concerning.” These are the primary contexts where the singular form is correctly employed.
The Plural “Regards”: When and Why It’s Used
The plural form, “regards,” finds its most frequent and accepted usage in the closing of a letter or email. Phrases like “Best regards,” “Kind regards,” or “Warm regards” are standard salutations that convey goodwill and politeness.
In this context, “regards” implies a collection of respectful feelings or sentiments being sent to the recipient. It’s a conventional way to sign off, indicating a friendly or professional acknowledgment.
When used in closings, “regards” is always plural. The singular “regard” would sound incomplete and grammatically awkward in these instances, such as “Best regard,” which is incorrect.
Furthermore, the phrase “with regard to” is sometimes seen, and it is considered grammatically correct. It functions as a prepositional phrase meaning “concerning” or “in relation to.” For example, “With regard to your recent inquiry, we have attached the relevant documents.”
This “with regard to” construction uses the singular noun “regard” to denote a single subject or matter being addressed. It’s a formal and acceptable alternative to “regarding” or “concerning.”
The distinction here is crucial: “with regard to” is correct, while “in regards to” is generally not. The singular “regard” in “with regard to” refers to the specific topic at hand.
It’s worth noting that the difference between “with regard to” and “as regards” is subtle. Both are correct, but “as regards” is often considered slightly more formal and is a more fixed expression.
The Problematic “In Regards To”
The phrase “in regards to” is where most grammatical errors occur. In standard English, this construction is widely considered incorrect. The issue stems from the misuse of the plural “regards” where a singular noun or a different idiomatic structure is required.
The correct prepositional phrase meaning “concerning” or “with respect to” is “in regard to” (singular) or, more commonly and acceptably, “with regard to” or simply “regarding.” Using the plural “regards” in this context is a common error, likely arising from confusion with the plural “regards” used in letter closings.
Think of it this way: when you are talking *about* a subject, you are considering that subject. The subject itself is a single point of reference. Therefore, the singular “regard” is logically appropriate in phrases like “in regard to” or “with regard to.”
Many native English speakers and reputable style guides, including The Chicago Manual of Style and the Associated Press Stylebook, advise against “in regards to.” They recommend using “regarding” or “with regard to” instead for clarity and correctness.
The prevalence of “in regards to” in informal writing and speech has unfortunately led to its widespread acceptance in some circles. However, for formal writing, business communication, or academic work, it is best to avoid this construction altogether.
To illustrate the error, consider the sentence: “In regards to the meeting, I have some questions.” This should correctly be written as: “Regarding the meeting, I have some questions,” or “With regard to the meeting, I have some questions.” The plural “regards” simply doesn’t fit the grammatical structure here.
The confusion might also stem from the plural “regards” in closings, leading people to believe that “regards” is generally used when referring to matters. However, the function of the word in a closing is different from its function when introducing a topic.
Correct Alternatives and Best Practices
To avoid the common pitfall of “in regards to,” it’s best to stick to established and universally accepted alternatives. The simplest and most direct replacement is the preposition “regarding.”
For example, instead of “In regards to the new policy,” you can confidently write “Regarding the new policy.” This is concise, clear, and grammatically impeccable across all forms of writing.
Another excellent alternative is the phrase “with regard to.” This construction uses the singular “regard” and is considered perfectly correct in formal and informal contexts. “With regard to the upcoming conference, we need to finalize the speakers.”
The idiomatic phrase “as regards” also serves as a correct option, particularly in more formal writing. It means “concerning” or “with respect to.” “As regards the financial report, the figures are promising.”
When in doubt, opt for “regarding.” It is the most versatile and least likely to cause confusion. It functions seamlessly in almost any sentence where you intend to introduce a topic or refer to a specific matter.
Consider the context carefully. If you are closing a letter, use “Best regards” or “Kind regards.” If you are introducing a subject, use “regarding,” “with regard to,” or “as regards.”
By consciously choosing these correct alternatives, you ensure your writing is precise, professional, and free from common grammatical errors. This attention to detail elevates the quality of your communication.
The Nuances of “In Regard” vs. “With Regard”
While “in regards to” is incorrect, the phrase “in regard to” (singular) is technically grammatically permissible, though less common than “with regard to.” It functions similarly to “concerning” or “in relation to.”
For instance, “He made a statement in regard to his future plans.” Here, “in regard to” refers to a single topic: his future plans. It’s a valid construction, albeit one that many writers find slightly more awkward than “with regard to.”
The distinction between “in regard to” and “with regard to” is subtle and often debated. Both are generally accepted as correct when referring to a specific subject matter. However, “with regard to” is more frequently encountered and often preferred for its smoother flow.
The key difference lies in the preposition used: “in” versus “with.” Both refer to a single “regard” (a consideration or aspect of something).
Many grammar resources suggest that “with regard to” is the more idiomatic and preferred phrasing. Using “in regard to” might sometimes sound slightly stilted or archaic to modern ears.
To maintain clarity and avoid potential misinterpretation, sticking to “with regard to” or the simpler “regarding” is often the safest bet. These options are universally understood and accepted.
Ultimately, whether you use “in regard to” or “with regard to,” the singular “regard” is essential. The plural “regards” is never appropriate in this specific grammatical context.
“As Regards” – A Fixed and Formal Expression
“As regards” is a fixed idiomatic expression that means “concerning” or “with respect to.” It functions as a compound preposition and is always used in this exact form.
This phrase is generally considered more formal than “regarding” or “with regard to.” It’s often found in academic papers, legal documents, or official reports where a precise and formal tone is required.
For example, “As regards the budget allocation, further discussion is necessary.” This sentence clearly introduces the topic of budget allocation for consideration.
There is no singular or plural variation of “as regards” that is correct in this usage. The phrase stands alone as a complete unit. You would never write “as regard” or “as regards to.”
The effectiveness of “as regards” lies in its ability to clearly signal a shift in focus or the introduction of a new topic. It’s a strong indicator that what follows is the subject being addressed.
While correct, overuse of “as regards” can make writing sound overly formal or even pompous. It’s best used judiciously when the context truly calls for that level of formality.
Understanding that “as regards” is a set phrase helps to differentiate it from the problematic “in regards to” and the more common “with regard to.” It occupies its own specific niche in formal English.
Common Mistakes in Professional Correspondence
In professional settings, grammatical accuracy is paramount for maintaining credibility. The misuse of “in regards to” is a common error that can detract from the professionalism of emails, reports, and other business communications.
When a client or colleague receives correspondence containing “in regards to,” it can subconsciously signal a lack of attention to detail. This might lead them to question the overall quality and care put into the communication.
For instance, an email starting with “In regards to your proposal…” might be perceived as less polished than one beginning with “Regarding your proposal…” or “With regard to your proposal…” The latter options convey a sense of precision.
This error is particularly prevalent because “in regards to” sounds very similar to the correct phrases and is often heard in informal speech. However, professional writing demands a higher standard of accuracy.
To ensure your professional communications are taken seriously, make a conscious effort to replace “in regards to” with “regarding” or “with regard to.” This simple change can significantly enhance the perceived professionalism of your writing.
Even small grammatical slips can have a cumulative effect on how your message and your professional image are received. Eliminating common mistakes like this one is a crucial step in effective business communication.
Remember that in formal closings, the plural “regards” is correct, as in “Sincerely” followed by “Best regards.” This is distinct from the incorrect prepositional phrase “in regards to.”
The Singular “Regard” in Idiomatic Expressions
Beyond “with regard to” and “as regards,” the singular noun “regard” appears in other fixed idiomatic expressions that often involve the preposition “in.” These phrases carry specific meanings related to consideration, respect, or focus.
One such expression is “in regard of,” which is quite archaic and rarely used in modern English. It functions similarly to “in consideration of” or “with respect to.” However, its rarity makes it prone to misunderstanding or being perceived as an error.
Another relevant phrase is “in no regard,” meaning “in no respect” or “not at all.” For example, “The situation was in no regard what we had anticipated.” This idiom emphasizes a complete absence of a particular quality or characteristic.
The phrase “in certain regards” also exists, meaning “in some respects” or “in some ways.” It’s used to acknowledge partial agreement or to specify particular aspects of a matter. “The proposal is acceptable in certain regards, but requires further refinement.”
These examples highlight that the singular “regard” is indeed used correctly in specific, established idiomatic phrases. The key is that these are fixed expressions with established grammatical structures.
The confusion often arises when people try to construct a new phrase using “in” and “regards” that deviates from these established patterns, leading to the incorrect “in regards to.” Understanding these specific idioms helps clarify the correct usage of the singular “regard.”
When encountering phrases involving “regard,” consider whether it fits into one of these recognized idiomatic structures. If it doesn’t, it’s likely a deviation from standard grammar.
Impact on Tone and Formality
The choice between “regarding,” “with regard to,” and “as regards” can subtly influence the tone and formality of your writing. Understanding these nuances allows you to tailor your language to your audience and purpose.
“Regarding” is generally the most neutral and versatile option. It’s suitable for most situations, from casual emails to more formal documents, without sounding overly stiff or too informal.
“With regard to” carries a slightly more formal tone than “regarding.” It’s a safe choice for professional correspondence and situations where a measured and considered approach is desired.
“As regards” is the most formal of the three. It’s best reserved for academic writing, legal documents, or situations where a high degree of formality is expected and appropriate. Using it in casual conversation might sound out of place.
Conversely, the incorrect “in regards to” often reads as informal or simply erroneous, regardless of the intended formality. Its presence signals a departure from standard grammatical conventions.
By selecting the appropriate phrase, you can effectively manage the perceived formality of your writing. This conscious choice contributes to clearer communication and a more professional image.
Consider your audience and the context of your communication when deciding which phrase to use. This thoughtful approach ensures your message is received as intended.
Why “Regards” is Plural in Closings
The use of the plural “regards” in letter and email closings like “Best regards” or “Kind regards” stems from a historical convention. It implies a collection of sentiments, wishes, or respectful feelings being sent to the recipient.
Think of it as wishing someone a bundle of good feelings or considerations. The plural form encompasses a range of positive sentiments rather than a single, isolated one.
This convention has become so ingrained that using the singular “regard” in these closings (“Best regard”) sounds incorrect and incomplete to most English speakers.
The phrase evolved from earlier, more elaborate expressions of goodwill. Over time, it was shortened to the current concise and widely accepted plural form.
While the exact linguistic origin might be debated, the function is clear: to convey politeness and respect in a conventional closing.
It’s a set phrase, much like “Sincerely,” that signals the end of the main body of the message and offers a final courteous sentiment.
This specific usage of the plural “regards” is distinct from its incorrect application in prepositional phrases.
Tips for Remembering the Difference
A simple mnemonic device can help you remember the correct usage. Think of the plural “regards” as being reserved for the *regards* you send at the end of a letter (like waving goodbye with many regards). For any other meaning, especially when introducing a topic, use the singular “regard” or the word “regarding.”
Another helpful tip is to associate the incorrect phrase “in regards to” with the number “one.” Since “regards” is plural, it doesn’t fit the singular idea of referring to *one* topic. Therefore, avoid “in regards to” and opt for “regarding” or “with regard to.”
When you are introducing a subject, ask yourself if you are referring to one specific matter. If so, the singular “regard” is more appropriate in structures like “with regard to.” If you are unsure, the single word “regarding” is almost always the best and safest choice.
Practice makes perfect. Make a conscious effort to spot and correct “in regards to” in your own writing and in materials you read. The more you encounter and apply the correct forms, the more natural they will become.
Consider the context of the word “regard.” If it’s part of a closing salutation, the plural is correct. If it’s part of a phrase introducing a topic, the singular or the word “regarding” is correct.
By internalizing these simple rules and practicing their application, you can confidently navigate this common grammatical challenge. This will lead to clearer and more professional written communication.
Focus on the concept of “one topic” for phrases like “with regard to.” This singular focus aligns with the singular noun “regard.”
The Role of Style Guides
Reputable style guides offer definitive guidance on the correct usage of “in regard” versus “in regards.” Consulting these resources can provide clarity and reinforce best practices for formal writing.
Major style guides, such as The Chicago Manual of Style, the Associated Press Stylebook, and Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, consistently recommend against the use of “in regards to.” They advocate for “regarding” or “with regard to” as the correct alternatives.
These guides are developed and maintained by experts in language and writing. Their recommendations are based on established grammatical principles and common usage in professional and academic contexts.
Adhering to the advice of these style guides ensures your writing meets the highest standards of correctness and clarity. It provides a solid foundation for making grammatical decisions.
When in doubt, checking a reliable style guide is an excellent way to resolve confusion. It offers an authoritative answer to common grammar questions.
The consensus among these guides is clear: “in regards to” is an error, and “regarding” or “with regard to” should be used instead.
Embracing the recommendations of established style guides is a mark of a careful and knowledgeable writer.
Final Thoughts on Precision in Language
The distinction between “in regard” and “in regards” might seem minor, but mastering it reflects a commitment to precision in language. This precision is essential for effective communication.
When you use the correct forms, your writing appears more polished, professional, and authoritative. It demonstrates that you pay attention to the details that matter.
Avoiding common errors like “in regards to” elevates your credibility. It assures your audience that your message is clear, well-considered, and accurately conveyed.
The journey of improving one’s writing often involves understanding and correcting these subtle grammatical points. Each correction contributes to a stronger command of the English language.
By consistently applying the correct usage of “regarding,” “with regard to,” and the plural “regards” in closings, you enhance the overall quality of your written output.
This attention to detail is not just about following rules; it’s about communicating with clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
Embrace the challenge of grammatical accuracy; it is a cornerstone of impactful communication.