How does the verb adhere contrast with its synonyms?
Some common synonyms of adhere are cleave, cling, cohere, and stick. While all these words mean "to become closely attached," adhere is often interchangeable with stick but sometimes implies a growing together.
antibodies adhering to a virus
In what contexts can cleave take the place of adhere?
The synonyms cleave and adhere are sometimes interchangeable, but cleave stresses strength of attachment.
the wet shirt cleaved to his back
When might cling be a better fit than adhere?
In some situations, the words cling and adhere are roughly equivalent. However, cling implies attachment by hanging on with arms or tendrils.
clinging to a capsized boat
When is cohere a more appropriate choice than adhere?
While in some cases nearly identical to adhere, cohere suggests a sticking together of parts so that they form a unified mass.
eggs will make the mixture cohere
When can stick be used instead of adhere?
The words stick and adhere can be used in similar contexts, but stick implies attachment by affixing or by being glued together.
couldn't get the label to stick
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of adhereThat meant maps adhering as closely as possible to the maps that Republicans instituted in 2011.—David Mark, The Washington Examiner, 30 May 2025 That means all organizations should take note of this deadline and adhere if possible.—Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Authorities urged the public to monitor updates and adhere strictly to safety instructions issued during this period.—Barney Henderson, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025 Simply cut it to match the mat and adhere it with tape or glue.—Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for adhere
The motor can be unlocked to bump the top speed to 24 mph (38.6 km/h) when venturing into the wild, with the rider holding onto the high-rise bars while the passenger clings to the rider.
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New Atlas,
New Atlas,
12 Aug. 2025
At the end of the segment, a soaking-wet Holland stood up in the bath as his white T-shirt clung to his toned body, displaying his muscular body beneath the now see-through fabric.
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