Synonyms of rule

rule 1 of 2

noun

ˈrül 

1

as in regulation

a statement spelling out the proper procedure or conduct for an activity

read the rules that are posted before you use the pool

Synonyms & Similar Words

• regulation
• law
• code
• constitution
• principle
• guideline
• instruction
• value
• standard
• ordinance
• bylaw
• restriction
• statute
• ground rule
• commandment
• reg
• decree
• guide
• prohibition
• maxim
• act
• edict
• axiom
• direction
• fundamental
• practice
• directive
• command
• directory
• tradition
• convention
• order
• precept
• ban
• habit
• formula
• fiat
• dictate
• custom
• manners
• decalogue
• moral
• blueprint
• behest
• interdiction
• proscription
• charge
• canon
• mores
• way

2

as in government

lawful control over the affairs of a political unit (as a nation)

the years during which Russia was under Communist rule

Synonyms & Similar Words

• government
• administration
• governance
• regime
• reign
• jurisdiction
• authority
• power
• dictatorship
• regimen
• sovereignty
• tyranny
• leadership
• regulation
• dominion
• domination
• management
• oppression
• supremacy
• command
• supervision
• direction
• sway
• mastery
• hegemony
• autocracy
• subjugation
• superintendence

3

as in tradition

an inherited or established way of thinking, feeling, or doing

one of the sacred rules of that ancient society was respect for the elderly

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tradition
• principles
• values
• convention
• custom
• standards
• prescription
• norm
• heritage
• ethic
• rubric
• mode
• superstition
• inheritance
• legacy
• form
• culture
• folklore
• mores
• lifestyle
• birthright
• lore

rule

2 of 2

verb

1

as in to govern

to exercise authority or power over

a sea captain who ruled his ship sternly but justly

Synonyms & Similar Words

• govern
• control
• dictate
• dominate
• command
• boss
• manage
• sway
• preside (over)
• lead
• captain
• domineer
• administer
• oversee
• regulate
• conduct
• direct
• master
• supervise
• head
• reign (over)
• oppress
• conquer
• lord (it over)
• micromanage
• subdue
• superintend
• subjugate
• tyrannize

2

as in to control

to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression)

a monarch who is known for ruling her emotions with an iron hand

Synonyms & Similar Words

• control
• regulate
• contain
• curb
• keep
• restrain
• measure
• govern
• check
• suppress
• constrain
• stifle
• tame
• hold
• inhibit
• stop
• pull in
• bridle
• rein (in)
• interrupt
• swallow
• choke (back)
• hold back
• silence
• strangle
• block
• arrest
• repress
• hinder
• smother
• impede
• obstruct
• squelch
• hamper
• sink
• mince
• muffle
• pocket
• bottle (up)
• handcuff
• muzzle
• gag

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• lose
• loosen
• liberate
• loose
• express
• take out
• vent
• unleash
• air

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

Recent Examples of rule

Noun

But many firefighters seem equally determined to preserve Chicago’s two-staircase rule. — Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2026

The education department passed along the student’s inquiry to Sherri Sutton-Johnson, the director of nursing education for the nursing board, who confirmed the student’s suspicion the school was flouting the state’s rules. — Annie Martin, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Sep. 2026

Verb

The country’s judiciary ruled unconstitutional the port concessions at both entrances held by a Hong Kong consortium. — ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026

But in a dramatic ruling last August, a federal judge ruled that the case could go on. — Mike Kelly, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2026

Phrases Containing rule

• as a rule
• ground rule
• rule (on)
• rule out