In Regard or In Regards - Correct Usage Guide 2026

If you’ve ever written an email like “In regards to your message…”, you’re not alone. Many English learners – and even native speakers – get confused between “in regard” and “in regards.”

The confusion happens because both phrases sound natural, and you’ll often see “in regards” used informally. But when it comes to correct grammar and professional writing, only one form is truly accepted.

In this guide, you’ll learn the correct usage, grammar rules, examples, and easy tricks so you never make this mistake again.

Quick Answer

👉 The correct phrase is “in regard to.”
❌ “In regards to” is considered informal or incorrect in standard English.

✔ Use: In regard to your request…
❌ Avoid: In regards to your request…

Comparison Table

Word/Phrase	Correct or Incorrect	Meaning
In regard to	✅ Correct	Concerning or about something
In regards to	❌ Incorrect (formal)	Informal version, not recommended

Meaning of Each Word

✅ In Regard To

“In regard to” means “about” or “concerning.”
It is the standard and grammatically correct phrase used in both formal and informal writing.

✔ Example:
In regard to your application, we will respond soon.

❌ In Regards To

“In regards to” is often used in casual speech, but it is not grammatically correct in formal English.

It likely comes from confusion with phrases like:

Give my regards to… (which is correct, but different)

👉 So while you might hear it often, it’s best to avoid it in professional writing.

Grammar Rule Behind the Correct Word

The correct phrase is based on the noun “regard”, which means attention or consideration.

“In regard to” = In connection with / concerning
“Regard” here is used as an uncountable noun

Adding “s” (regards) changes the meaning:

“Regards” usually means good wishes (e.g., Best regards)

👉 That’s why “in regards to” doesn’t make grammatical sense.

✨ Quick Grammar Tip

✔ Use “regard” when talking about a topic
✔ Use “regards” when sending greetings

Example Sentences

Here are clear examples to help you understand:

In regard to your complaint, we are investigating the issue.

I’m writing in regard to the job opening.

In regard to your question, the answer is yes.

She spoke in regard to the new policy.

In regard to your order, it has been shipped.

We have updated the report in regard to recent changes.

In regard to your email, I will reply shortly.

He raised concerns in regard to safety measures.

In regard to your feedback, we appreciate your input.

In regard to the meeting, it has been postponed.

Common Mistakes People Make

Many writers make these common errors:

❌ Writing “in regards to” in emails
❌ Thinking both forms are interchangeable
❌ Confusing “regards” with greetings
❌ Using informal phrases in professional writing

👉 These mistakes can make your writing look less professional, especially in business communication.

Easy Trick to Remember the Difference

Here’s a simple trick:

👉 Think of “regard” as ONE topic

You are talking about one subject, not multiple “regards.”
So use: In regard to ✅

❌ If you see “regards,” think of emails like:
Best regards, John

When to Use Each Word

Use “In Regard To” When:

Writing formal emails
Academic writing
Business communication
Professional documents

✔ Example:
In regard to your proposal, we need more details.

Avoid “In Regards To” When:

Writing professionally
Preparing official documents
Communicating with clients

👉 It may be acceptable in casual conversation, but not recommended.

FAQs

What is the correct phrase: in regard or in regards?

The correct phrase is “in regard to.”

Is “in regards to” acceptable in emails?

It’s commonly used but not recommended in professional emails.

What can I use instead of “in regard to”?

You can use:

Concerning
About
Regarding
With regard to

4. Is “regarding” better than “in regard to”?

Yes, “regarding” is often simpler and more modern.

5. Is this a serious grammar mistake?

Not serious, but it can affect your professional impression, especially in business writing.

Related Grammar Mistakes

Here are similar commonly confused phrases:

Affect vs Effect
Happy New Year or Years
Your vs You’re
Its vs It’s
Former vs Latter

👉 Learning these helps improve your overall writing clarity and professionalism.

Final Summary

Let’s quickly recap:

✔ “In regard to” is correct
❌ “In regards to” is incorrect in formal English

Key Takeaways:

Use “in regard to” for professional writing
Avoid adding “s” unless you mean greetings
“With regard to” and “regarding” are great alternatives

👉 Mastering small grammar rules like this can make a big difference in your writing quality.

In Regard or In Regards – Correct Usage, Meaning & Examples (2026 Guide)