Are you confused about whether to use “in regard” or “in regards”? You are not alone. Many people search for this phrase because both forms appear in emails, letters, and even formal writing. The confusion often arises because people assume “regards” is the plural of “regard,” but that’s not always correct in every context. Using the wrong form can make professional emails or documents look careless.
In this article, we will clear the confusion. You will learn the quick rule for choosing the correct form, understand the origin of the phrase, and see how British and American English differ. Additionally, we’ll share common mistakes, show real-world examples, and provide tips on which spelling to use depending on your audience. By the end, you will confidently know when to write “in regard” and when “in regards” might be acceptable.
In Regard or In Regards – Quick Answer
Quick Answer:
- ✅ “In regard” → Correct for formal writing, meaning “concerning” or “about.”
- Example: I am writing to you in regard to your application.
- ⚠️ “In regards” → Often used informally or in email closings, but grammatically less formal.
- Example: With best regards, (correct) vs in regards to your email (less formal, can be considered wrong in formal writing).
Rule of thumb: Use “in regard to” for formal communications and professional writing.
The Origin of In Regard or In Regards
The word “regard” comes from the Old French regarder, meaning “to look at” or “to consider.” Over time, it evolved in English to mean “concerning” or “with respect to.”
The plural form “regards” originally referred to feelings or greetings (e.g., send my regards). This is why “in regards to” can feel like a casual extension but is not traditionally correct in formal contexts.
The confusion exists because language changes over time, and informal usage often mixes plural forms with singular expressions.
British English vs American English Spelling
In British English, “in regard to” is the standard form in formal writing. American English also prefers “in regard to” for professional contexts, but “in regards to” has become common in casual correspondence.
| Aspect | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Formal writing | in regard to ✅ | in regard to ✅ |
| Informal writing | in regards to ⚠️ | in regards to ⚠️ |
| Email closings | N/A | With regards / Best regards ✅ |
Tip: Only use “in regards to” in informal emails or casual messages.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Professional emails & letters: Always in regard to.
- Academic papers or official documents: in regard to is correct.
- Casual emails or social media posts: in regards to is acceptable but less formal.
- Global audience: Stick with in regard to for clarity and professionalism.
Common Mistakes with In Regard or In Regards
- ❌ In regards your message… → Correct: In regard to your message…
- ❌ She wrote me in regards of the issue. → Correct: She wrote me in regard to the issue.
- Using “in regards” in formal essays → Use “in regard” instead.
Tip: Remember, “regard” is singular when referring to topics or concerns.
In Regard or In Regards in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- Correct: I am contacting you in regard to the meeting schedule.
- Casual: In regards to your question, I’ll reply soon.
News articles:
- The government issued new guidelines in regard to public health. ✅
Social media:
- In regards to your comment, we appreciate the feedback. ⚠️ (informal)
Formal writing:
- This report provides recommendations in regard to environmental policies. ✅
In Regard or In Regards – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows that “in regard to” is more commonly searched and preferred in professional writing, especially in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. “In regards to” spikes occasionally in casual queries or social media contexts but remains less standard.
| Keyword | Average Monthly Searches | Popular Countries |
|---|---|---|
| in regard to | 12,000 | US, UK, Canada, Australia |
| in regards to | 4,500 | US, UK |
Keyword Variations Comparison Table
| Variation | Usage | Formality | Correctness |
|---|---|---|---|
| in regard to | Writing about a topic | Formal ✅ | Correct ✅ |
| in regards to | Informal communication | Informal ⚠️ | Acceptable in casual use |
| with regard to | Alternative for “in regard to” | Formal ✅ | Correct ✅ |
| with regards to | Informal/less formal | Casual ⚠️ | Common but less formal |
FAQs
1. Can I use “in regards to” in formal writing?
No, “in regard to” is preferred for formal writing.
2. Is “with regard to” the same as “in regard to”?
Yes, both are correct and formal, but with regard to is slightly more common in British English.
3. Why do people use “in regards to”?
It’s a casual adaptation and influenced by the plural use of regards in greetings.
4. Can I use “regards” in emails?
Yes, as a closing: Best regards or Kind regards ✅
5. Is “in regards to” wrong?
Not strictly wrong, but it is less formal and often discouraged in professional writing.
6. What is the origin of “regard”?
From Old French regarder, meaning “to look at” or “consider.”
7. Which is globally preferred, “in regard” or “in regards”?
In regard to is globally preferred in professional and academic writing.
Conclusion
The key takeaway is simple: use “in regard to” for formal and professional writing. Reserve “in regards to” for casual emails or informal messages. Understanding this distinction improves clarity and makes your writing look polished and confident.
Remember, language evolves, and informal forms may appear in everyday communication, but sticking to in regard to ensures correctness and professionalism across emails, articles, and official documents. Whether you’re in the US, UK, or anywhere else, following this rule keeps your writing clear, accurate, and respected.
