What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compliance
Example
The company was in compliance with all safety regulations. [compliance: noun]
Example
She complied with the teacher's request to turn off her phone. [complied: verb]
observance
Example
The observance of Ramadan involves fasting during daylight hours. [observance: noun]
Example
We observed the tradition of lighting candles on the menorah for Hanukkah. [observed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compliance is more commonly used than observance in everyday language, especially in legal or business contexts. Observance is more specific and less common, typically used in religious or cultural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compliance and observance?
Compliance is more formal than observance, as it is often used in legal or business contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
