Slang for “in accordance with” is often expressed as “per.” This informal term is widely used in legal, business, and everyday contexts to indicate compliance or conformity with rules, instructions, or standards.
Understanding the Meaning and Usage of “Per”
The word “per” functions as a preposition meaning “according to” or “by way of.” It is derived from Latin, where it also meant “through” or “by.” In modern English, “per” is frequently employed in formal writing, especially in legal documents, contracts, and official communications, to specify adherence to rules, guidelines, or instructions.
For example:
- “The payment was made per the terms of the contract.”
- “All employees must adhere to the policies per company guidelines.”
In casual speech or informal writing, “per” can sometimes be replaced with phrases like “according to” or “based on,” but “per” remains the most concise and common slang or shorthand for “in accordance with.”
Common Contexts and Examples
Understanding how “per” functions as a slang for “in accordance with” depends on context. Here are some typical scenarios:
- Legal and contractual language: “The seller shall deliver the goods per the agreement.”
- Business communications: “Invoices must be submitted per company policy.”
- Everyday instructions: “Please follow the guidelines per the manual.”
- Transportation and travel: “Tickets are issued per the airline’s regulations.”
In each case, “per” signifies that an action or condition complies with a specific rule, instruction, or standard.
Misconceptions and Clarifications
One common misconception is that “per” is exclusively formal or legal jargon. While it is heavily used in legal and formal contexts, “per” is also familiar in everyday speech, especially in instructions or when summarizing compliance. For example, someone might say, “You can only access the building per security protocol,” meaning according to the security rules.
Another point of confusion is whether “per” can be used interchangeably with “according to.” While similar, “per” is typically more concise and sometimes more official; “according to” can sound more formal or verbose depending on context.
Historical and Linguistic Background
The term “per” comes from Latin, where it was used in various contexts to mean “through” or “by means of.” Its adoption into English legal and business language has persisted for centuries, maintaining its role as a concise way to indicate compliance or adherence. Over time, “per” has become embedded in standard jargon, especially in fields where precision and brevity are valued, such as law, finance, and logistics.
Understanding this background helps clarify why “per” has become the go-to slang for “in accordance with” in many professional settings. Its Latin roots lend it a formal tone that is both efficient and universally understood across English-speaking legal and business communities.
Related Terms and Alternatives
While “per” is the most common slang for “in accordance with,” there are other terms and phrases used in specific contexts:
- According to: More formal, used in speech and writing to cite rules or sources.
- In line with: Slightly more informal, indicating conformity or agreement with standards.
- Based on: Used when actions are performed according to principles or data.
- In compliance with: Formal phrase often found in legal and regulatory contexts.
Choosing the right term depends on tone, formality, and context. “Per” remains the most succinct and versatile slang, especially in contexts where brevity is valued.