as in decides
to give an opinion about (something at issue or in dispute)
the coach ruled on the question of whether an off-campus bar fight ought to disqualify someone from the team
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rules (on)
Verb
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Deborah decides to apologize to Kelly at a restaurant, with hopes of getting the outfit.—
Erin Jensen,
USA Today,
8 May 2026 -
What California decides — and when — will matter at the national level.—
Ana Ceballos
Follow,
Los Angeles Times,
7 May 2026
Verb
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The general election determines officeholders for statewide positions, including for Georgia governor and lieutenant governor, both of which have no incumbents running.—
Dan Raby,
CBS News,
14 May 2026
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If Hoskins determines that the referendum does not qualify for the ballot, that decision is also poised to spark another round of legal battles to decide the fate of the campaign.—
Kacen Bayless,
Kansas City Star,
14 May 2026
Verb
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American Idol judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan reacted to Seacrest’s on-air announcement with a mix of shock and confusion.—
Samantha Stutsman,
PEOPLE,
6 Apr. 2026
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In episode three, Mary judges Eleanor pretty harshly for her choices with Robert.—
Brande Victorian,
HollywoodReporter,
1 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Venturella’s appointment comes as Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin settles into his role atop the Cabinet agency overseeing ICE.—
Heather Hollingsworth,
Los Angeles Times,
13 May 2026
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There will be both winners and losers when the dust settles.—
Phillip Molnar,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
13 May 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Rules (on).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rules%20%28on%29. Accessed 16 May. 2026.
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