In regard to and with regard to are examples of phrases we use to connect ideas. They mean “with respect to.”
But when writing these phrases, people often use the plural of regard: regards. This is incorrect, and it’s colloquial. With (or in) regards to shouldn’t appear in writing, but it does; I see—and edit—it all the time.
In the phrase with (or in) regard to, regard is a singular noun.
Regard (singular) as a noun means to give consideration to something (e.g., She has no regard for the rules).
Regard (singular) as a verb means to consider someone or something in a certain way (e.g., I regard February as the best month).
Regards (plural) is a noun that means good wishes (e.g., Send regards to your valentine). It’s often used as the closing in a letter (e.g., Warm regards).
The incorrect use of regard and regards has become popular (many people think they’re interchangeable); it’s one of those mistakes that is seen so often it seems correct. (Sort of like this phrase and this phrase.)
Remember that you don’t have to use with (or in) regard to at all if you don’t like it. Although it’s acceptable, it’s wordy. Don’t be afraid to use more simple language to connect ideas. There are other options. Here are a few:
Regarding
Concerning
About
Pertaining to
You care about the goals you have for your writing, and you know it’s not effective to write in the same way you speak—that’s how meaning gets lost.
So remember this:
In the phrase with (or in) regard to, don’t use an “s” in regard.
