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The words ADHESION and ADHERENCE both refer to “sticking to something”, but differ somewhat in their usage.

The word ADHESION literally describes one object sticking to another in a manifestly material way.

Example: Which brand of Super Glue gives better adhesion, Brand X or Brand Y?

On the other hand, ADHERENCE is more properly applied to a person sticking to a more figurative thing.

Example:  Mayor X really believes in adherence to the Principle of Subsidiarity in all his undertakings.

The latter is more often used in business (unless you are a product manager for a glue company), as an employee or CEO may adhere to certain principles and standards that make the company competitive.

sourced by JMJF