In Regards Versus In Regard

In Regards Versus In Regard: Understanding the Nuances of These Prepositional Phrases

Choosing between "in regards" and "in regard" can feel surprisingly tricky, even for seasoned writers. This seemingly minor grammatical point often trips up individuals, leading to confusion and potentially undermining the professionalism of written communication. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the distinctions between these phrases, exploring their correct usage, common errors, and providing clear examples to solidify your understanding. We'll also examine the preferred alternatives to both phrases for achieving greater clarity and conciseness in your writing.

Understanding the Core Difference: Grammatical Structure

The fundamental difference lies in the grammatical structure. "In regard" is a correct and commonly used prepositional phrase. "In regards" is grammatically incorrect. The word "regard" in this context functions as a noun, meaning "attention" or "consideration." The preposition "in" indicates location or circumstance. Therefore, the correct phrasing is "in regard to," followed by the object of the preposition. The plural form, "regards," is not appropriate in this construction. Using "in regards to" implies that "regards" is a plural noun that requires the preposition "in," which is inaccurate.

Correct Usage of "In Regard To"

"In regard to" is the grammatically correct form and should always be preferred. This phrase introduces a topic or subject being discussed. It smoothly transitions into a clarification or explanation. Here's how you'd use it correctly:

• "In regard to your question about the deadline, it has been extended." This sentence correctly uses "in regard to" to introduce the subject of the deadline extension.
• "In regard to the recent budget cuts, we will need to implement some cost-saving measures." Here, "in regard to" clearly identifies the topic of budget cuts as the focus of the following statement.
• "In regard to the upcoming project, please submit your proposals by Friday." This example showcases the phrase's ability to set the stage for a subsequent instruction or request.

Why "In Regards To" is Incorrect

The phrase "in regards to" is grammatically flawed because "regards" is used incorrectly as a plural noun. While "regards" can be used in other contexts (e.g., "Give my regards to your family"), it doesn't fit the grammatical structure of a prepositional phrase. The preposition "in" requires a singular noun object, and "regard" (meaning "attention" or "consideration") is that singular noun. Using "regards" creates a plural noun that doesn't fit the intended function of the prepositional phrase.

Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings

Many writers inadvertently use "in regards to" due to the common misuse and the perceived similarity to phrases like "with regards to" (which is also grammatically incorrect but more commonly accepted due to overuse). This highlights the importance of paying close attention to grammatical precision. The most frequent mistakes include:

• Using "in regards to" when "in regard to" is correct: This is the most prevalent error, stemming from a misunderstanding of the grammatical structure.
• Overusing the phrase: While "in regard to" is grammatically sound, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.
• Confusing it with similar phrases: The confusion with other phrasing like "with regards to" contributes to the incorrect use of "in regards to."

Alternatives to "In Regard To"

While "in regard to" is grammatically correct, there are often more concise and impactful ways to express the same idea. Consider these alternatives:

• Regarding: This is a concise and widely accepted alternative. Example: "Regarding your question, the answer is..."
• Concerning: This works well when discussing matters of importance or concern. Example: "Concerning the recent incident, we have launched a full investigation."
• About: A more informal but perfectly acceptable option in many contexts. Example: "About the meeting, please arrive promptly."
• On: This preposition often functions similarly and is simpler. Example: "On the subject of your concerns, we'll address them shortly."
• With respect to: More formal and appropriate for professional settings. Example: "With respect to your application, we'll notify you shortly."

Choosing the best alternative depends on the context and the overall tone of your writing. Striving for conciseness and clarity is always preferable to using unnecessarily wordy phrases.

Advanced Usage and Contextual Considerations

The choice between "in regard to" and its alternatives depends heavily on the context and the desired level of formality. For instance, using "in regard to" in an informal email might seem overly formal, while using "about" in a formal business report might be considered too casual.

Consider the following nuances:

• Formality: "With respect to" is more formal than "regarding" or "about."
• Emphasis: "Concerning" subtly emphasizes the importance or seriousness of the topic.
• Specificity: "In regard to" often implies a more detailed explanation or discussion.

Mastering the subtle differences in tone and formality allows for more nuanced and effective communication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is "in regards to" ever acceptable?

A: No, "in regards to" is grammatically incorrect and should always be avoided.

Q: What's the difference between "in regard to" and "regarding"?

A: They essentially convey the same meaning. "Regarding" is a more concise and commonly used alternative.

Q: Should I use "in regard to" in informal writing?

A: While grammatically correct, it might sound overly formal in informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "about" or "regarding" are often better choices.

Q: Is "with regards to" correct?

A: Similar to "in regards to," "with regards to" is also grammatically incorrect, though frequently seen due to widespread misuse. "With respect to" is a more grammatically correct alternative.

Q: How can I avoid making this mistake in the future?

A: Consciously choose "in regard to" or its more concise alternatives. Proofread carefully and use a grammar checker to identify and correct any instances of "in regards to." Familiarize yourself with the correct usage and incorporate it into your writing habits.

Conclusion: Precision in Language Matters

The distinction between "in regard to" and "in regards to" highlights the importance of precision in language. While the incorrect usage of "in regards to" is widespread, understanding the grammatical principles underlying this distinction will enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing. By consistently using the correct phrasing and exploring concise alternatives, you'll communicate more effectively and present yourself as a skilled and detail-oriented writer. Remember, choosing the right words is not just about grammar; it's about conveying your message with impact and precision. Strive for clarity, conciseness, and correctness in all your writing endeavors.