Accord vs. accordance

What does accord mean?

Accord is a noun which means agreement or an official treaty. As a verb, accord means to give or grant someone power or recognition, or to be harmonious or consistent with.

For example:

• The council was in accord on how to move forward.

• The king accorded her the power to rule in his absence.

What does accordance mean?

Accordance is a noun which means conformity or agreement.

For example:

• In accordance with our company policy, you must write one novel every 5 years.

What’s the difference between accord and accordance?

Accord can be either a noun or a verb meaning agreement, an official treaty or to grant someone recognition. Accordance, on the other hand, is a noun which means conformity or agreement.

For example:

• The board was in accord that all novels should be printed in accordance with industry standards.