with regard to — concerning / about (framing topic)
expressionC1IELTS 7+formaloccasional
Used to introduce the topic you are talking about, especially to focus or shift the conversation to a specific subject.
Say it like a native
Textbook Pertaining to the subject of your recent correspondence, I write to respond.
Native With regard to your email, here's my reply.
'With regard to' is the standard formal topic-opener; 'pertaining to the subject of' is overblown.
Pattern: with regard to [noun/noun phrase], [comment/statement]
In use
- With regard to your question about the project, I think we need more time to finish it.communication
- With regard to the impact of technology on family life, I believe it has both positive and negative effects. On one hand, it helps families stay connected, but on the other, it can sometimes reduce face-to-face interaction.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ With regards to your request, we agree.
✓ With regard to your request, we agree.
In this phrase it's 'regard' (singular); 'regards' (plural) belongs in sign-offs ('best regards').
Common collocations
with regard to— your request, the matter, this, payment
Don't confuse it
'With regard to' is more formal and structured than 'about' or 'regarding', and is often used to introduce or shift to a new topic in discussions.