rule of law
noun phrase
: a situation in which the laws of a country are obeyed by everyone
The courts uphold the rule of law.
Examples of rule of law in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
While Mae stands by her decision to follow the rule of law, her children are none too pleased to have their father's killer walking the streets.
—
Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 20 Dec. 2025
At today’s meeting, a sitting Member of Congress was muted, and participants were prevented from speaking — actions that reflect a troubling lack of transparency and respect for the rule of law.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 18 Dec. 2025
Hong Kong authorities have repeatedly rejected claims Lai’s trial was politically motivated and maintain the city’s judicial system adheres to the rule of law.
—Katrina Samaan, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025
The Hong Kong and Chinese governments say Lai has received a fair trial and that the criticism is an attempt to undermine the city’s rule of law.
—Jennifer Jett, NBC news, 14 Dec. 2025
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Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 20 Dec. 2025
At today’s meeting, a sitting Member of Congress was muted, and participants were prevented from speaking — actions that reflect a troubling lack of transparency and respect for the rule of law.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 18 Dec. 2025
Hong Kong authorities have repeatedly rejected claims Lai’s trial was politically motivated and maintain the city’s judicial system adheres to the rule of law.
—Katrina Samaan, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025
The Hong Kong and Chinese governments say Lai has received a fair trial and that the criticism is an attempt to undermine the city’s rule of law.
—Jennifer Jett, NBC news, 14 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for rule of law
Cite this Entry
“Rule of law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20law. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
rule of law
1
: an authoritative legal doctrine, principle, or precept applied to the facts of an appropriate case
adopting the rule of law that is most persuasive in light of precedent, reason and policy—Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)
Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)2
: government by law : adherence to due process of law
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