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
This is not liberalism of the left, and not liberalism of the neoliberal sort associated with a particular set of right-wing views, but instead a commitment to freedom, pluralism, and the rule of law.
—
Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2025
The real challenge is building a system that reflects our values, upholds the rule of law and meets the country’s long-term needs.
—Kristie De Pena, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025
Because their oath was to protect the Constitution of the United States and to protect the rule of order in this country and the rule of law.
—ABC News, 21 Sep. 2025
Ignoring the rule of law and refusing to provide evidence or due process makes this an execution.
—Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for rule of law
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Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2025
The real challenge is building a system that reflects our values, upholds the rule of law and meets the country’s long-term needs.
—Kristie De Pena, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025
Because their oath was to protect the Constitution of the United States and to protect the rule of order in this country and the rule of law.
—ABC News, 21 Sep. 2025
Ignoring the rule of law and refusing to provide evidence or due process makes this an execution.
—Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Sep. 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 29 Sep. 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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