Regard To Or Regards To

Regarding or Regards to: Understanding the Nuances of These Phrases

Choosing between "regarding" and "regards to" can feel surprisingly tricky, even for native English speakers. Both prepositions are used to introduce a topic or subject, but subtle differences in their usage and formality exist. This comprehensive guide will delve into the nuances of each phrase, clarifying their appropriate contexts and helping you confidently choose the best option for your writing. We'll explore their grammatical structures, common usage examples, and even touch upon the historical evolution of these phrases to provide a complete and nuanced understanding.

Understanding "Regarding"

"Regarding" is a preposition meaning "concerning" or "with respect to." It's a relatively straightforward and versatile word, commonly used in both formal and informal writing. Its concise nature makes it a popular choice for introducing a topic succinctly. The structure is simple: Regarding + Noun/Pronoun + Clause.

Examples:

"Regarding your question about the deadline, it has been extended to Friday."
"Regarding the recent changes to the policy, please consult the updated document."
"Regarding him, I have nothing but positive things to say."

Understanding "Regards to"

"Regards to" is a slightly more complex phrase. While functionally similar to "regarding," it often carries a slightly more formal tone, particularly when used in the phrase "with regards to." The structure is slightly different: With regards to + Noun/Pronoun + Clause. Note the inclusion of "with," which subtly shifts the emphasis.

Examples:

"With regards to your application, we will be contacting you shortly."
"With regards to the upcoming conference, all attendees are expected to register in advance."
"With regards to their concerns, the management team has addressed the issues."

Grammatical Differences and Usage

While both phrases introduce a topic, there are subtle grammatical and stylistic distinctions:

Formality: "With regards to" generally leans towards a more formal register, suitable for professional correspondence, official documents, and formal speeches. "Regarding" is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Wordiness: "Regarding" is more concise and direct. "With regards to" is slightly more wordy, adding an extra preposition. In short, conciseness often favors "regarding."
Emphasis: "With regards to" places a slightly stronger emphasis on the subject being introduced. This subtle difference can affect the overall tone and impact of the sentence.
Regional Variations: While both phrases are widely understood, the preference for one over the other might subtly vary based on region or individual writing style. However, both are generally acceptable in standard English.

When to Use Which: Practical Examples and Guidelines

Here are some practical scenarios to illustrate the appropriate use of each phrase:

Use "Regarding" when:

You need a concise and direct way to introduce a topic.
You're writing in an informal setting, such as an email to a colleague or friend.
You want to maintain a clear and simple sentence structure.

Use "With regards to" when:

You're writing in a formal setting, such as a business letter or official report.
You want to add a touch of formality and politeness to your communication.
You want to place a slightly stronger emphasis on the subject being introduced.

Comparing Examples:

Consider these pairs of sentences:

Option 1 (Regarding): "Regarding the meeting, we'll need to reschedule."
Option 2 (Regards to): "With regards to the meeting, we'll need to reschedule."

Both are grammatically correct. However, Option 1 is more concise and suitable for most situations. Option 2 adds a slight touch of formality, which might be appropriate in a professional email.

Option 1 (Regarding): "Regarding your feedback, we appreciate your input."
Option 2 (Regards to): "With regards to your feedback, we appreciate your input."

Again, both are correct. The choice depends on context. "Regarding" feels more natural and less formal in this instance.

Historical Evolution and Origin

The evolution of these phrases reflects the changing nature of English language usage. "Regarding" has a longer and more established history, rooted in older forms of the word. "Regards to" emerged later, likely influenced by the increasingly formal nature of business correspondence and official documents. The use of "regards" as a noun (expressing good wishes or compliments) contributed to the development of the prepositional phrase.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

A common misconception is that "regards to" is inherently incorrect. This is false. Both phrases are grammatically correct, but their usage should be guided by context and desired level of formality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use "in regards to"? A: While grammatically acceptable to some, "in regards to" is widely considered less formal and slightly less elegant than "with regards to" or "regarding." It's generally better to use one of the preferred alternatives.
Q: Is there a significant difference in meaning between "regarding" and "with regards to"? A: No, the core meaning remains consistent. The difference lies primarily in formality and emphasis.
Q: Which phrase is preferred in academic writing? A: "Regarding" is generally preferred in academic writing due to its conciseness and directness. However, "with regards to" isn't incorrect, but might be seen as slightly less formal in academic contexts.
Q: Is it acceptable to use "regarding" in a formal business letter? A: Absolutely. "Regarding" is perfectly acceptable in formal business letters, provided the overall tone of the letter maintains professionalism.
Q: Can I start a sentence with "Regarding...?" A: Yes, starting a sentence with "Regarding..." is perfectly acceptable and common practice.

Conclusion

Choosing between "regarding" and "regards to" depends largely on context and desired tone. "Regarding" offers conciseness and versatility, making it suitable for most situations. "With regards to" adds a touch of formality and subtle emphasis, making it a better choice for professional and formal communications. By understanding these nuances, you can confidently and effectively communicate your ideas in writing, choosing the phrase that best suits your specific needs. Remember to prioritize clarity and precision in your writing, and let the context guide your choice. Both are correct; the key is choosing the one that sounds most natural and appropriate for your audience and purpose.