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 According to the 1919 ordinance, property owners are not charged directly for trash collection. U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2025 Santa Monica officials say the back-up beeping isn’t loud enough to violate the city’s noise ordinance. Nick Watt, CNN Money, 25 June 2025 The move comes after Ada County last year adopted a similar ordinance to try and curtail problems in part thanks to faster e-bikes. Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 25 June 2025 Miami-Dade earlier this year similarly enacted an ordinance banning the sale of DMV appointments. Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for ordinance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ordinance
Noun
  • James Gabbert/Getty Images The Context Texas law allows people with a license to conceal carry a gun and to possess that gun on college campuses.
    Sophie Clark Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025
  • Florida law outlines sweeping powers available in a state of emergency, including the governor’s ability to use and deploy all available county and local resources.
    Skyler Swisher, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Grace reminds us that spaceflight is not just a feat of engineering, but an act of goodwill to the benefit of every human everywhere.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 27 June 2025
  • The group relocated briefly to San Francisco in 1966, playing gigs and honing their live act.
    Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • However, of those who pay their own cell phone bill, most waited until age 27 — and 18% didn't start paying for their plan until age 40 or later, AT&T found.
    Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 25 June 2025
  • Because the bill is instead a framework for spending, the Wisconsin Supreme Court deemed the Democratic governor’s partial vetoes unconstitutional.
    David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Paul Atkins has asked the SEC staff to explore amendments, seek guidance, and frame rules that may be necessary for new companies to comply.
    Lawrence Wintermeyer, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • The 13th, 14th and 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution — ratified between 1865 and 1870 — were also critical in moving the country forward after the Civil War.
    Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • The test Consumers' Research proposes also would throw a host of federal statutes into doubt, as Congress has often empowered agencies to raise revenue without specifying a numeric cap or tax rate.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 27 June 2025
  • Trump used a federal statute to seize control of the California National Guard earlier this month, as protests broke out about his administration’s crackdown on immigration and the use of ICE agents.
    Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • But beyond the president, social media influencers are impacting legislation in Congress.
    Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 22 June 2025
  • Massie had sponsored legislation that would have required congressional approval for any strikes on Iran.
    Colin Meyn, The Hill, 22 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ordinance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ordinance. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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