Synonym Chooser

How is the word ordinance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ordinance are canon, law, precept, regulation, rule, and statute. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When can canon be used instead of ordinance?

The words canon and ordinance can be used in similar contexts, but canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

In what contexts can law take the place of ordinance?

The meanings of law and ordinance largely overlap; however, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

When is precept a more appropriate choice than ordinance?

While in some cases nearly identical to ordinance, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

Where would regulation be a reasonable alternative to ordinance?

While the synonyms regulation and ordinance are close in meaning, regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When might rule be a better fit than ordinance?

The synonyms rule and ordinance are sometimes interchangeable, but rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

When could statute be used to replace ordinance?

The words statute and ordinance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ordinance Restrictions and limits In accordance with state law and city ordinance, Stillwater, population 19,200, is allowed to issue one cannabis business registration per 12,500 residents, as determined by the most recent state demographer’s estimate. Mary Divine, Twin Cities, 22 Oct. 2025 Some examples described in the ordinance are loud music, engine noise and even lawn mowers and construction sites operating at late hours. Gina Lee Castro, jsonline.com, 17 Oct. 2025 Under city ordinance, Greenberg must consult with the Civilian Review and Accountability Board before the nomination goes to Metro Council for final approval. Monroe Trombly, Louisville Courier Journal, 16 Oct. 2025 Many roads have been destroyed, and rubble may be hiding unexploded ordinances. Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ordinance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ordinance
Noun
  • According to Arkansas law, all drain plugs must be removed from your boat at the boat ramp upon the conclusion of your outing and during transport.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Larson argued the amendment would limit the state's ability to enact more restrictive gun laws in the future.
    Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • This act would make daylight saving time permanent and end the bi-annual tradition of changing the clocks.
    Haadiza Ogwude, Cincinnati Enquirer, 25 Oct. 2025
  • The film’s tonal balancing act — mixing absurdist humor with Anderson’s trademark intensity — seemed obviously comedic to casual awards observers, and the filmmakers, along with studio awards strategists, felt similarly.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 24 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Two Senate Democrats -- John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada -- have supported the House bill.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2025
  • In comparison, Elizabeth Holmes, who was convicted of defrauding investors in the Theranos case, reportedly ended up with a legal bill of roughly $30 million.
    Ken Sweet, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Wisconsin voters have approved the majority of constitutional amendments placed on ballots by Republicans in the past two years.
    Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 20 Oct. 2025
  • California is trying to counter the Republican effort by redistricting in favor of Democrats, if voters pass a constitutional amendment next month.
    Savannah Hawley-Bates, NPR, 18 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The committee voted to ask Attorney General Josh Kaul to opine on whether grooming falls under the statute related to immoral conduct, which allows DPI to revoke a license if an educator violates it.
    Molly Beck, jsonline.com, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Preservation experts note that the White House grounds are governed by multiple overlapping statutes, though the Executive Residence has historically been treated as exempt from some federal planning reviews.
    Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • While House Republicans can pass legislation with a simple majority vote, Senate Republicans cannot advance most matters without meeting a 60-vote threshold.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2025
  • In response to that legislation, De Anza developed new assessment practices, curriculum and other services that support students in completing those college-level courses.
    Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 26 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ordinance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ordinance. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ordinance

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