Conform
/kənˈfɔːrm/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo comply with rules, standards, or laws.
/kənˈfɔːrm/
The new software needs to conform to industry standards.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game, and there are rules. To 'conform' means to follow those rules so everyone can play fairly! Like wearing the right uniform for the team.
👶 For kids: To do what you're told or what the rules say.
More Examples
He refused to conform to societal expectations.
We need to conform our practices to the new regulations.
How It's Used
"Employees must conform to the company's dress code."
"The building plans need to conform to local building codes."
To be similar or identical; to be in agreement.
/kənˈfɔːrm/
To be similar to something or someone else; be in agreement.
The design of the new car conforms to aerodynamic principles.
💡 Simply: Imagine you and your friend are both trying to look the same. If your outfits match each other, you're 'conforming' to each other's style and look similar.
👶 For kids: To be the same as something or someone else.
More Examples
His behavior seems to conform to the stereotype.
The report's conclusions do not conform to the available data.
How It's Used
"Teenagers often conform to peer pressure."
"She decided to conform her lifestyle to her partner's."
Idioms & expressions
conform to the norm
To behave in a way that is considered normal or acceptable by society.
"She decided to conform to the norm and wear a more conservative dress to the party."
nonconformist
A person who does not conform to generally accepted standards of behavior or thought.
"He was a nonconformist, always challenging the status quo."
From Middle French *conformer* (to make like, shape), from Latin *conformāre* (to shape, form), from *con-* (with, together) + *formāre* (to form).
The word 'conform' has been used since the 16th century and originally referred to the act of making something similar or of the same form.
Memory tip
Think of "form" and "con-" (together), so you're taking on the same form as the others around you, like a uniform.
Word Origin
"to shape, form"