Abide by Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Respecting Authority Using 'abide by' shows you respect an authority setting rules. We all need to abide by the school's guidelines. Pro Tip 2/3Legal Seriousness 'Abide by the law' is a serious expression often used in legal contexts. Citizens must abide by the law to avoid penalties. Pro Tip 3/3Commitment Emphasis Emphasize commitment by saying you'll 'abide by' an agreement. I'll abide by our contract and deliver the goods on time.