Synonym Chooser

How is the word statute distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of statute are canon, law, ordinance, precept, regulation, and rule. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

In what contexts can canon take the place of statute?

While the synonyms canon and statute are close in meaning, canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

Where would law be a reasonable alternative to statute?

In some situations, the words law and statute are roughly equivalent. However, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

When can ordinance be used instead of statute?

While in some cases nearly identical to statute, ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When is it sensible to use precept instead of statute?

Although the words precept and statute have much in common, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

When might regulation be a better fit than statute?

The words regulation and statute can be used in similar contexts, but regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When is rule a more appropriate choice than statute?

The words rule and statute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of statute McLaughlin sued McKesson in 2014, alleging violations of the TCPA without the notice to opt out required under the statute. Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025 Since his arrest, several foreign students and academics have been targeted under the foreign policy statute. Nik Popli, Time, 20 June 2025 Under a very targeted reading of an obscure statute, Trump moved to federalize the Golden State National Guard on June 7 without Newsom’s consent in response to protests over a flood of ICE raids in and around LA on June 6. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 20 June 2025 And in the courts, Trump administration lawyers are digging deep into case law in search of archaic statutes that can be cited to justify the ongoing federal crackdown — including constitutional maneuvers invented to enforce the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for statute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for statute
Noun
  • Florida law outlines sweeping powers available in a state of emergency, including the governor’s ability to use and deploy all available county and local resources.
    Skyler Swisher, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 June 2025
  • And American law, then as now, tends to favor legacy over hustle.
    Aron Solomon June 24, Literary Hub, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Grace reminds us that spaceflight is not just a feat of engineering, but an act of goodwill to the benefit of every human everywhere.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 27 June 2025
  • The group relocated briefly to San Francisco in 1966, playing gigs and honing their live act.
    Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • Hard-liners dominate the Parliament and could pass a bill with that aim.
    Arash Azizi, The Atlantic, 25 June 2025
  • That's the promise of this country, and that's the promise this bill delivers.
    Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • An ordinance restricting buildings above three stories has kept the high-rises and big brands at bay.
    Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 17 June 2025
  • The ordinance is now pending a council vote at a future meeting.
    Luke Harold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 June 2025
Noun
  • The 13th, 14th and 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution — ratified between 1865 and 1870 — were also critical in moving the country forward after the Civil War.
    Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 19 June 2025
  • Paul Atkins has asked the SEC staff to explore amendments, seek guidance, and frame rules that may be necessary for new companies to comply.
    Lawrence Wintermeyer, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Statute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/statute. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

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