Many English learners feel confused when they see phrases like “with regard to” and “with regards to.” At first glance, both look almost the same. The only difference is a small “s” at the end of regard. But that small change can create big confusion.
You might hear both forms in daily conversations, emails, or even in business writing. Some teachers say one is correct. Others say both are fine. So what should you believe?
This topic matters because these phrases are often used in formal and semi-formal English. You may need them when writing emails, giving explanations, or talking about a topic politely.
Using the wrong form can sometimes make your English sound unnatural or less professional.
After reading this guide, everything will feel much clearer. You will understand the meaning of each phrase, when to use them, and which one is safer in formal English.
You will also learn simple tricks, real-life examples, and common mistakes to avoid.
By the end, you won’t hesitate when choosing between these two phrases again.
What Does “With Regard To” Mean?
Simple Definition
“With regard to” means “about,” “concerning,” or “related to.”
It is used when you want to talk about a specific topic or subject.
When to Use It
You use “with regard to” when:
- You are speaking or writing formally
- You want to introduce a topic politely
- You are giving information about something specific
It is very common in:
- Emails
- Business writing
- Academic writing
Grammar Rule
“With regard to” is a prepositional phrase.
👉 It is followed by:
- a noun
- a pronoun
- a gerund (verb + ing)
Examples
- With regard to your question, I will reply soon.
- She spoke with regard to the new policy.
- With regard to his behavior, we need to talk.
- I have some concerns with regard to this plan.
- With regard to your application, it is under review.
- The teacher explained the rules with regard to exams.
- With regard to traveling, I prefer trains.
- He made a comment with regard to the issue.
Common Learner Confusion
Many learners think this phrase is too formal or old-fashioned. But it is still widely used, especially in professional settings.
Another confusion is mixing it with “regards” because of common phrases like:
- “Best regards”
- “Kind regards”
This leads learners to think “with regards to” must also be correct.
What Does “With Regards To” Mean?
Simple Definition
“With regards to” is often used to mean the same as “with regard to”, which is “about” or “concerning.”
However, it is less formal and sometimes considered incorrect in strict grammar rules.
When to Use It
You may hear or see “with regards to” in:
- Casual conversations
- Informal emails
- Spoken English
Some people use it naturally, especially in everyday speech.
Grammar Rule
Grammatically, “regards” is a plural noun, which usually means good wishes (like in letters: “Best regards”).
Because of this, many grammar experts say:
👉 “with regards to” is not standard in formal English
Examples
- With regards to your message, I will respond later.
- I have a question with regards to the project.
- With regards to the meeting, it has been canceled.
- She spoke with regards to her experience.
- With regards to your complaint, we are investigating.
- He shared his opinion with regards to the topic.
- With regards to this issue, we need a solution.
- I am writing with regards to your request.
Common Learner Confusion
The biggest confusion comes from everyday exposure. Many people use this phrase, so learners think it is fully correct.
But here is the truth:
- It is commonly used
- But not always grammatically preferred
In formal writing, it is safer to avoid it.
Difference Between With Regard To and With Regards To
Comparison Table
| Feature | With Regard To | With Regards To |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | About / concerning | About / concerning |
| Formality | Formal | Informal |
| Grammar correctness | Standard | Often debated |
| Usage in writing | Preferred | Avoid in formal writing |
| Common in speech | Yes | Yes |
Usage Difference
Both phrases are used to talk about a subject. But the key difference is formality and correctness.
- “With regard to” → safer and more professional
- “With regards to” → casual and less standard
Grammar Logic
“Regard” (singular) works as a neutral noun in this phrase.
But “regards” (plural) usually means:
👉 greetings or good wishes
Example:
- Give my regards to your family
Because of this meaning, adding “to” after “regards” can sound strange in strict grammar.
Sentence Structure Difference
Both follow the same structure:
👉 With regard(s) to + noun / pronoun / verb+ing
Examples:
- With regard to the issue
- With regards to the issue
Structure is the same — but correctness is different.
Meaning Comparison
In real use, both mean:
👉 “talking about something”
But in careful English:
- “with regard to” = correct and clear
- “with regards to” = informal and sometimes avoided
Grammar Rules You Must Remember
: Use “With Regard To” in Formal Writing
Example:
With regard to your proposal, we accept your idea.
👉 This sounds professional and correct.
: Avoid “With Regards To” in Exams
Example:
❌ With regards to your answer, it is wrong.
✅ With regard to your answer, it is wrong.
👉 Teachers usually prefer the correct form.
: Always Follow with a Noun or Verb-ing
Example:
With regard to studying, you need discipline.
👉 “studying” is a gerund.
: Do Not Confuse with “Best Regards”
Example:
Best regards,
Ali
👉 This is correct for emails, but different from the grammar phrase.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Why Mistakes Happen
- Influence of spoken English
- Confusion with “best regards”
- Seeing both forms online
- Lack of grammar clarity
Wrong vs Correct Examples
❌ With regards to your problem, I will help.
✅ With regard to your problem, I will help.
❌ I am writing with regards to apply.
✅ I am writing with regard to applying.
Easy Correction Tips
- If writing formal English → use with regard to
- If unsure → avoid “regards”
- Remember: “regards” = greetings
Easy Trick to Remember the Difference
Think about emails.
👉 You say:
“Best regards” at the end
So:
- “regards” = greetings
- Not used for explaining topics
Now think:
👉 When talking about a topic → use “regard” (no s)
Simple memory line:
👉 “No ‘s’ when discussing, ‘s’ when greeting.”
Daily Life Examples (Very Important)
Here are natural spoken-style sentences:
- With regard to your order, it will arrive tomorrow.
- I have a question with regard to your plan.
- With regard to money, I am saving more these days.
- With regard to your idea, I think it’s good.
- With regard to the movie, it was amazing.
- With regard to your health, you should rest.
- With regard to work, I am very busy.
- With regard to this problem, we need help.
- With regard to your message, I didn’t understand.
- With regard to travel, I love mountains.
These are simple, natural, and useful in daily English.
Practice Section
Choose the correct option:
- ______ your request, we will reply soon.
- I am writing ______ your complaint.
- ______ this topic, we need more research.
- She spoke ______ the issue clearly.
- ______ his behavior, he must improve.
Answers
- With regard to
- With regard to
- With regard to
- With regard to
- With regard to
FAQs
1. What is the difference between “with regard to” and “with regards to”?
Both mean “about,” but “with regard to” is correct and formal. “With regards to” is informal and less preferred.
2. Can we use “with regards to” in speaking?
Yes, many people use it in casual speech. But it is better to use “with regard to” for accuracy.
3. Is “with regard to” formal or informal?
It is formal and commonly used in professional and academic English.
4. Can I use these phrases in emails?
Yes. But in formal emails, always use “with regard to.”
5. Why is “with regards to” considered incorrect?
Because “regards” usually means greetings, not topics. So it does not fit well grammatically.
6. What is a better alternative?
You can use:
- about
- concerning
- regarding
These are simple and clear.
Final Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “with regard to” and “with regards to” can make your English clearer and more professional. Even though both are used in daily life, only one is fully correct in formal grammar.
“With regard to” is the safer and smarter choice. It works well in emails, exams, and professional writing. On the other hand, “with regards to” is common in casual speech but should be avoided in formal situations.
The good news is that the difference is simple once you remember it. Just think: no “s” when talking about a topic. That one small detail will help you avoid mistakes.
Practice using the correct phrase in your daily sentences. The more you use it, the more natural it will feel.
Clear grammar builds confidence. And confidence helps you speak and write better English every day.
I am Nathan Scott, a passionate English grammar educator and content writer at GrammarVers, dedicated to helping learners improve their language skills through simple lessons, practical examples, and effective learning resources.
