Definition of by the rules
: 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.
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“By the rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20rules. Accessed 4 Dec. 2021.
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