rule 1 of 2

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
One of the rules in Twenge’s book bans smartphones during the school day and overnight in kids’ bedrooms. Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 18 Oct. 2025 Years later, their youngest daughter, Hannah Burch – now 24 and a mother herself – shared a viral TikTok video reflecting on the unique ways she and her siblings were raised — from rules around being a tattletale to monthly family yardwork and chore expectations. Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025
Verb
The California district court later ruled that the Administration had violated the Posse Comitatus Act by using soldiers to execute federal law, and an appeal is pending. Jeannie Suk Gersen, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2025 The character in question is King Shaka, or ShakakaSenzangakhona, the most famous of the Zulu kings who ruled in a pre-colonial era. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rule
Noun
  • More than 60% of European companies cite regulation as an obstacle to investment, and most see it as their biggest challenge overall.
    Jan Hammer, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Humans carry a similar genetic toolkit, but their regulation and activity are vastly different.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Delhi has been consistently prioritizing cold interests over all else—engaging with the junta in Myanmar, refraining from openly criticizing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, engaging both Iran and Israel, and getting closer toward recognizing the Taliban as Afghanistan’s official government.
    Happymon Jacob, Time, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Many of them had easy access to government offices that enabled them to obtain genuine Syrian passports with fake names, according to former employees and regime figures.
    Danny Makki, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Once on campus, he’s drawn into the intense world of Black Greek life, where rival fraternities battle through stepping competitions that blend rhythm, tradition, and pride.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Submissions could consist of a favorite childhood moment, a family tradition or a special experience that captures the spirit of the festival.
    Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 16 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Seventy-nine nations are members of the global governing body, the International Federation of American Football (IFAF).
    Eduardo Tansley, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Many questions remain over what comes next, whether Hamas will disarm and how Gaza will be governed after the war.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • By controlling the pressure inside the robot’s body and the temperature of the actuators, the researchers were able to steer it through intricate paths.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2025
  • In return, Moscow controlled strategic ports and bases on the Mediterranean, and gained access to lucrative phosphate mining and fossil fuel deals.
    Danny Makki, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • To the extent permitted by applicable law, all judgments or awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket damages (excluding attorneys’ fees) associated with participation in this Promotion and shall not include any indirect, punitive, incidental and/or consequential damages.
    Vogue, Vogue, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Colorado law defines stalking, in part, as when a person knowingly and repeatedly follows, approaches, contacts or communicates with another person in a way that causes that person serious emotional distress.
    Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 13 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The administration also looked at data showing Memphis’ murder rates are approximately four times higher than Mexico City and 27 times higher than Havana, suggesting the city is more dangerous than areas abroad with elevated crime rates.
    Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Last year, the Biden administration initially hit China with 25 percent tariffs on the STS cranes amid accusations of violating Section 301 trade laws, as well as wider national security concerns at the ports.
    Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The ocean regulates our climate, supports global trade, and feeds communities.
    Olivier Wenden, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025
  • American laws aren’t equipped to deal with the fast-moving ambitions of CEO Elon Musk, and Washington doesn’t seem in a hurry to regulate his company.
    Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rule. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on rule

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!