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rule

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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
Matt Salo, a national Medicaid expert, said these types of mistakes happen in states throughout the country because the program is rife with overlapping federal and state rules. Arkansas Online, 6 Sep. 2025 But Sex and the City bends to no rules! Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
And over the last two years, the county medical examiner has twice ruled the death of a person in sheriff’s custody a homicide due to neglect. Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Sep. 2025 Millennials are currently ruling the tech industry and clinging to their roles as the economy is rocked by uncertainty due to tariffs, inflation increases living expenses, and AI swipes jobs. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 7 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rule
Noun
  • These measurements are fundamental to understanding how greenhouse gas emissions relate to rising temperatures, simultaneously contributing to scientific research and informing policymakers of compliance with environmental regulations.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 6 Sep. 2025
  • In November 2008, when Steven was still in elementary school, KU beat MU on a touchdown pass with 27 seconds left in regulation.
    Quentin Corpuel, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Tonolli encouraged O’Connor to grant the government’s motion to dismiss.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Sep. 2025
  • However, the federal hiring freeze imposed earlier this year put these dreams of government work on hold.
    Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Whatever the reason behind the tradition may be, Swift and Mahomes were all smiles in the Dirty 30 photo as the WAGS prepare to head into football season together and cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs.
    Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Parents paying is another venerable LA tradition, though one that is rectified with a chain of Venmos at a later date.
    Joe Joyce, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The allegiance transfer rulings were last changed by the sport’s governing body in 2018, when the minimum three-year waiting period (to compete internationally) was introduced.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025
  • After the race was over, the governing body gave its ruling on the collision.
    Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • After the fire is fully contained, the next step is to control it.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Merino wool also has natural temperature-regulating and odor-controlling properties—both of which are ideal for hiking.
    Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The grants were allocated under President Joe Biden's signature Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, an anti-gun violence law signed after the mass school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
    Oren Oppenheim, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Aside from his signature 2021 criminal justice bill, Cooper signed legislation into law in 2020, allowing judges to reduce mandatory minimum sentences mandated by law for drug offenders.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Kasperowicz emphasized those are lower now than under the Biden administration, when vacancy rates were 19% and 20% for doctors and nurses, respectively.
    Natalie Eilbert, jsonline.com, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Many of the aforementioned executives have sought friendlier ties with Trump, often appearing at events alongside the president to announce moves that align with the administration’s goals on emerging technologies and American reshoring.
    Dylan Butts, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Researchers have found that curcumin—the primary compound found in turmeric—has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help regulate blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
    Sherri Gordon, Health, 8 Sep. 2025
  • The Northern Sea Route is generally viewed as more developed and regulated, with Moscow investing heavily in infrastructure as part of a broader campaign to gain an upper hand in the Arctic.
    Tom O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rule. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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