by the rules

idiom

: in the way that is most common, expected, and acceptable

After years of boredom, he grew tired of living by the rules.

She has always played by the rules throughout her career.

Examples of by the rules in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Laws can be passed, but that doesn't mean everyone plays by the rules, according to Will Maxson, an assistant director with the FTC's division of marketing practices. —

Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2024 If a Floridian is convicted of a felony in another state, their right to vote is determined by the rules in the state where they were convicted. —

Rachel Barber, USA TODAY, 2 July 2024 Any competitor who plays by the rules, the DOJ claims, is at a distinct disadvantage. —

Brian Barrett, WIRED, 23 Aug. 2024 The video shows the inquiry was filed within 47 seconds after Chiles’ score was published, therefore abiding by the rules. —

Regina Cho, VIBE.com, 12 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for by the rules

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'by the rules.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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“By the rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20rules. Accessed 22 Oct. 2024.

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