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
Graf ruled earlier this week that a former roommate of Robinson's will not have to testify in person during the preliminary hearing, which will be open to the public. Kerry Breen, CBS News, 26 June 2026 Now, Moore must pay Bogan $1,244, a judge ruled last week — half the horse’s purchase price plus its vet bills. Amber Gaudet, Charlotte Observer, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rule
Noun
  • Those also include new regulations on mail-in voting that are likewise facing legal challenges.
    Aysha Bagchi, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Christensen suggests the state should instead focus on stripping back environmental regulations that make brush clearance and fire prevention costly, which would ensure state firefighters are not working excessive overtime and the state budget is not being stretched beyond its means.
    Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Rahman also filed a claim against the federal government under the Federal Tort Claims Act in April.
    Riley Moser, CBS News, 24 June 2026
  • While governments face pressure to invest in adaptation measures, from cooling centers to heat-resilient infrastructure, experts warn that such steps risk addressing the symptoms rather than the cause.
    Elmira Aliieva, NBC news, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • Held every Thursday evening on the city’s scenic downtown waterfront, Clematis by Night has been a West Palm Beach tradition since 1995.
    Staff Author, Southern Living, 22 June 2026
  • Sidney and this Mark share a teen daughter, Tatum (Isabel May), who follows the family tradition of being a Ghostface target.
    Derek Lawrence, Entertainment Weekly, 22 June 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 artist was beloved by Americans for his intimate portrayals of the country’s values.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Talarico’s faith is distinct from the Catholicism that Vice President JD Vance embraced in 2019, which sees a central place for Christianity in American life that’s focused on traditional social values like family formation — not social justice.
    David Weigel, semafor.com, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rule. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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