rule 1 of 2

noun

ˈrül How to pronounce rule (audio)
Definition of rulenext
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

Relevance
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
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

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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

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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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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
Foreign investors still have to navigate a system under extensive regulatory oversight and state involvement, with unclear rules on market access of certain critical sectors and exit routes. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025 The group argued that these messages breach rules on the use of funds for publicity and propaganda. —Kate Plummer, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
It’s ruled by Mars, who is currently swimming through the depths of Scorpio. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 5 Oct. 2025 Gein was found guilty of murder, but in a follow-up proceeding was ruled to be not guilty — again by reason of insanity. —Jr Radcliffe, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rule
  1. regulation
  2. government
  3. tradition
  4. govern
  5. control
  6. law
  7. administration
  8. regulate
Noun
  • Their proposal would prohibit the EPA from using the program’s assessments in environmental rules, regulations, enforcement actions and permits that limit the amount of pollution allowed into air and water, and from using them to map the health risks from toxic chemicals.
    — Sharon Lerner, ProPublica, 10 Oct. 2025
  • Sixty percent of executives identified structured frameworks and specialized tools designed to manage rules, identify risks, and ensure compliance with regulations as essential tactics for making their technology use safer and more resilient.
    — Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2025
Definition of regulation
Noun
  • In the Gulf, governments and the private sector are creating new companies and financial instruments that open opportunities for investors in both debt and equity markets.
    — Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025
  • The threat to withhold back pay has angered federal employees, according to Axios which first reported on the memo, and prompted criticisms from both Republican and Democrat lawmakers who insist the government is legally obligated to compensate furloughed workers.
    — Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 8 Oct. 2025
Definition of government
Noun
  • This singalong anthem would become a beloved tradition for Charlotte FC.
    — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Another activity listed is foraging in the wild — highlighting the tradition of looking for fresh berries and mushrooms.
    — Ashley J. DiMella, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025
Definition of tradition
Verb
  • Gaza would then be governed by an international coalition headed by Trump himself and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
    — Richard Hall, Time, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Then comes the real work of actually governing the world’s fourth-largest economy, with the future prime minister inheriting a slate of thorny issues.
    — Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025
Definition of govern
Verb
  • Hamas controls the government in the enclave.
    — Yamiche Alcindor, NBC news, 10 Oct. 2025
  • These lasers can produce massive amounts of light, but the beam is often unstable and difficult to control.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2025
Definition of control
Noun
  • The bill lists several topics teachers could discuss, including the religious background of the signers of the Declaration of Independence (which included Protestants and Deists), President George Washington's farewell address and the biblical Ten Commandments' influence on American law.
    — Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Oct. 2025
  • By law, half of the 20,000 available scholarships are required to go to families with no income cap, meaning even those making $1 million or more could qualify.
    — Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 6 Oct. 2025
Definition of law
Noun
  • Disarming Hamas and the future governance of Gaza The agreement has raised questions about Gaza’s post-war administration, which could involve an international body including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
    — Callum Sutherland, Time, 9 Oct. 2025
  • These groups and their supporters now have access to the top levers of government, either through official roles in the agency or through the administration’s adoption of their views.
    — Megan O’Matz, ProPublica, 8 Oct. 2025
Definition of administration
Verb
  • While employer support is still low, fewer than 5% offer meaningful programs, more companies are adding improved coverage for hormone therapy, paid time off and even regulating the office thermostat.
    — Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025
  • What To Do Instead Adding a little butter or oil to your nonstick pan while preheating can create a buffer that helps regulate the temperature and protect the coating.
    — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 6 Oct. 2025
Definition of regulate

Phrases Containing rule

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ruins
rule
ruled
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Cite this Entry

“Rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rule. Accessed 11 Oct. 2025.

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