in regard to, with regard to and as regards

Linguistic Reminder

(This reminder is available in English only.)

Problem

When using the expressions in regard to and with regard to, many writers and speakers mistakenly add an s to the word regard.

Solution

Write the noun regard in the singular in the phrases in regard to and with regard to. The final s is correct only in the phrase as regards, where regards is a verb.

Better still, instead of these wordy phrases, use about, as for, concerning or regarding to communicate clearly and effectively. Or rewrite the sentence, using a shorter preposition.

Examples

Examples of the use of regard
WORDY	CONCISE
The store has called in regard to (not in regards to) the missing hot tub. With regard to my recent accident in the hot tub, I have completely recovered. As regards the hot tub, I'm making a planter out of it!	The store has called about (or concerning or regarding) the missing hot tub. I have completely recovered from my recent accident in the hot tub. As for the hot tub, I'm making a planter out of it! OR I'm making a planter out of the hot tub!

References

Canadian Oxford Dictionary (2004)
The Gregg Reference Manual (2006)
Merriam Webster's Dictionary of English Usage (1994)
Oxford Guide to Canadian English Usage (2007)

Linguistic Recommendation reference number

REM-23/2010-05

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