rule 1 of 2

Definition of rulenext

rule

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rule distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of rule are canon, law, ordinance, precept, regulation, and statute. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

When might canon be a better fit than rule?

In some situations, the words canon and rule are roughly equivalent. However, canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

When is law a more appropriate choice than rule?

While the synonyms law and rule are close in meaning, 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 it sensible to use ordinance instead of rule?

While in some cases nearly identical to rule, ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

Where would precept be a reasonable alternative to rule?

The meanings of precept and rule largely overlap; however, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

In what contexts can regulation take the place of rule?

The words regulation and rule are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When would statute be a good substitute for rule?

The words statute and rule can be used in similar contexts, but 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 rule
Noun
While chatting with ExtraTV at the Tight Ends & Friends concert presented by Sports Illustrated and Reese's, San Francisco 49ers player George Kittle confirmed he was invited to the upcoming ceremony — and revealed one of the pair's wedding rules. Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 The rules mandate that officers come to a complete stop and confirm the right-of-way before proceeding through a red signal, even during emergency responses. Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 25 June 2026
Verb
The state Supreme Court ruled that was a suggestion Murdaugh was guilty and overturned his convictions. ABC News, 29 June 2026 Last year, an arbitrator ruled against the director, according to court filings. Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rule
Noun
  • Many structures are built with substandard materials, and safety regulations are frequently ignored to reduce costs.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
  • Fears have mounted that increasingly powerful AI models could be a boon for cybercriminals hunting for software vulnerabilities, but many administration allies are wary of government regulation of the industry.
    Joe Walsh, CBS News, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • The order aimed to create a voluntary mechanism for AI companies to give the government early access to their most advanced systems, allowing officials to vet the models for security risks before their public release.
    Jared Perlo, NBC news, 1 July 2026
  • Nathan Freed Wessler, deputy director of the ACLU's speech, privacy and technology project, said the First Amendment guarantees the right to criticize the government.
    Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • Each exchange led to a conversation about how their traditions and lives differed.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 1 July 2026
  • Andronis describes the restaurant as a traditional Greek taverna set against the caldera cliffs, blending Greek traditions with Santorini’s romance and exclusivity.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • While the district’s mayor and council have governed it since 1973, Congress has the right to review and repeal its laws and budget, as well as appoint its judges, despite residents not having voting representation in federal politics.
    Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 27 June 2026
  • The governing body refused to restrict Pride displays, giving fans the green light to bring rainbow flags and symbols into the stadium.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • France has largely dominated, controlling 68% of possession and creating a whopping seven shots on goal.
    Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 27 June 2026
  • Doing your nails at home gives you control over how aggressively the nail plate is filed and how gel is removed, which can lower the risk of long-term damage.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • Under state law, any single gift — or multiple gifts from the same source that add up to $50 or more during the annual period — must be disclosed.
    Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026
  • Millions of index cards, once restricted by German privacy laws and requiring a lengthy process to obtain, are now directly searchable online in German media, as of a few months ago, after the US National Archives published the surviving membership card files online.
    Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 28 June 2026
Noun
  • The Newsom administration did not respond to a request for comment Thursday evening.
    Seema Mehta, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Di Poppo is approved but in limbo No one from the federal government or New York City would agree to an interview for this story, but a city spokesperson said the Mamdani administration has worked extensively to help 220,000 New Yorkers get exemptions.
    Tim McNicholas, CBS News, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • The values imparted to me throughout my public school education — equal opportunity, impartial justice, respect for expertise, basic honesty — have been abandoned by a new breed of politician that has turned governance itself into a blood sport.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026
  • Companies with larger market cap values, such as the top 25 listed below, generally tend to by more stable, while smaller companies can offer higher volatility, but greater growth potential.
    Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rule. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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