What's the Difference Between 'Compliance' and 'Conformity'?
In this blog post we look at when to use compliance and when to use conformity.
'Compliance' or 'Conformity'?
Compliance and conformity are two related but distinct concepts that have to do with following rules, regulations and norms.
Compliance refers to the act of following a rule or a law.
It is often used in the context of regulations and laws that are put in place to govern businesses, organizations and individuals.
Compliance is often required by an external authority or law, such as a government agency or a company's internal policies. Compliance is typically seen as a necessary part of functioning in society and is often enforced through penalties for non-compliance.
Conformity, on the other hand, refers to the act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to those of a group.
This can be influenced by social pressure from a group, such as friends, family, or peers.
Conformity is often driven by a desire to fit in and be accepted by the group. It can also be motivated by a desire to avoid social disapproval or rejection.
Unlike compliance, conformity is often voluntary and not legally enforced.
In summary, compliance is about following rules, while conformity is about fitting in with others.
Compliance is often required by an external authority or law, while conformity is influenced by social pressure from a group.
Both concepts can have both positive and negative effects on individuals, groups, and society as a whole.
Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference between “compliance” and “conformity”:
"The company was found to be in compliance with federal regulations on data privacy."
This sentence refers to the company following a rule or law that is put in place by an external authority (federal regulations) on data privacy.
"The new employee quickly learned to conform to the company's dress code."
This sentence refers to the new employee matching their behavior to the company's dress code. This is not a rule or law, but a norm that is established by the company. The employee conforms to it in order to fit in and be accepted by the group.
"The store was fined for non-compliance with food safety regulations."
This sentence refers to the store not following a rule or law that is put in place by an external authority (food safety regulations) and as a result, is fined.
"Most of the students conformed to the popular fashion trend, wearing the latest designer clothes."
This sentence refers to the students matching their behavior to the popular fashion trend. They do this voluntarily in order to fit in and be accepted by the group.
"The company has a strict compliance policy for employee conduct during work hours."
This sentence refers to the company having a rule or policy that is put in place by an internal authority that employees are required to follow during work hours.
"In order to conform to the company's culture, new hires are expected to participate in after-work social events."
This sentence refers to new hires matching their behavior to the company's culture. They do this voluntarily in order to fit in and be accepted by the group.
Examples of Compliance in a Sentence
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Compliance with the new regulations is mandatory for all companies operating in the industry.
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The organization has a strict compliance program in place to prevent fraud.
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The company was found to be in compliance with all safety standards during the inspection.
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The employee was fired for non-compliance with company policies.
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The bank is required to maintain compliance with federal banking laws.
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The company's compliance department is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with industry regulations.
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The company's compliance program includes regular audits and training sessions for employees.
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Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act is crucial for businesses to ensure accessibility for all customers.
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The company's compliance team works closely with legal and risk management teams to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
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In order to maintain compliance with data protection laws, companies must secure personal data and have strict data handling policies in place.
Examples of Conformity in a Sentence
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Conformity to societal norms and expectations can be challenging for individuals who do not fit the mold.
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The students conformed to the expectations of the teacher and worked well in groups.
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In order to conform to the company's culture, new hires are expected to participate in after-work social events.
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Conformity to the group's decision was essential for the success of the project.
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The group's conformity to the traditional beliefs made it hard for new ideas to be accepted.
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The company's expectation for conformity to the company's values is outlined in the employee handbook.
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People often conform to the opinions of their peers, even if they do not agree with them.
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Conformity to the fashion trends of the time is often seen in the clothing choices of teenagers.
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The pressure to conform to certain beauty standards can be harmful for women and men.
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Conformity to the majority opinion can prevent individuals from expressing their own thoughts and ideas.
