Alphabet words (1)

The parties must abide by the judge’s decision. He is the most law-abiding person I know; he never even crosses the street when the light is red.

to obey; to follow an agreement, a decision or a rule

The company's management will be held accountable for the health and safety of employees. The tax reforms made local government units more accountable for their spending.

completely responsible, answerable

Our contractors failed to adhere to the terms of the agreement. It is essential that all the students adhere very strictly to the new guidelines.

to continue to obey a rule

The builders asked to be paid in advance, before the commencement of the construction. Should you wish to see me this week, please let me know in advance.

if the payment is made before it is due, or something happens before a particular time or before a particular event

I received a letter from the insurance company informing me that I was in arrears; no payment had been recorded for the past three months. Maintenance contracts are usually paid in arrears, monthly or quarterly.

money not paid when due (usually the sum of a series of unpaid amounts) or if payment is made after something is done, rather than before