regard

n.

1. Attention

   gaze, look, glance, notice, view, scrutiny, concern, consideration, thought, once-over*; see also look 3.

2. A favorable opinion

   esteem, respect, honor, favor, liking, interest, fondness, attachment, deference, opinion, sympathy, estimation, admiration, appreciation, reverence, homage, consideration, love, affection, value, devotion; see also admiration.

in regard to

without regard to

regard

v.

1. To look at

   observe, notice, mark, view, watch, heed, look on, mind, give attention to, attend, gaze, note, stare at, see, witness, contemplate, scrutinize.

   Antonyms disregard, overlook, turn away.

2. To have an attitude

   consider, think of, view, look upon, judge, deem, rate, reckon, perceive, contemplate; see also consider 2, think 1.

3. To hold in esteem

   respect, esteem, value, admire, appreciate, honor, look up to, revere; see also admire 1.

regard is the most neutral of the terms here, in itself usually implying evaluation of worth rather than recognition of it the book is highly regarded by authorities; respect implies high valuation of worth, as shown in deference or honor a jurist respected by lawyers; esteem, in addition, suggests that the person or object is highly prized or cherished a friend esteemed for her loyalty; admire suggests a feeling of enthusiastic delight in the appreciation of that which one views as superior one must admire such courage

as regards