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
But at the same time, his strongest feeling is simply to make sure that everything is done fairly and by the rules of the Game.
—
Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 3 July 2025
Folks who play by the rules and keep the faith just can't seem to get ahead.
—Sophie Clark, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025
The trailer comes to a dramatic conclusion with a shocking revelation from T.J. — someone might not be playing by the rules.
—Liza Esquibias, People.com, 1 July 2025
Good judgment: Golf's emphasis on integrity – calling penalties on oneself, playing by the rules – builds the ethical foundation that guides responsible technology use.
—First Tee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for by the rules
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Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 3 July 2025
Folks who play by the rules and keep the faith just can't seem to get ahead.
—Sophie Clark, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025
The trailer comes to a dramatic conclusion with a shocking revelation from T.J. — someone might not be playing by the rules.
—Liza Esquibias, People.com, 1 July 2025
Good judgment: Golf's emphasis on integrity – calling penalties on oneself, playing by the rules – builds the ethical foundation that guides responsible technology use.
—First Tee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for by the rules
Cite this Entry
“By the rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20rules. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.
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