Synonym Chooser

How is the word statute distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of statute are canon, law, ordinance, precept, regulation, and rule. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

In what contexts can canon take the place of statute?

While the synonyms canon and statute are close in meaning, canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

Where would law be a reasonable alternative to statute?

In some situations, the words law and statute are roughly equivalent. However, 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 can ordinance be used instead of statute?

While in some cases nearly identical to statute, ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When is it sensible to use precept instead of statute?

Although the words precept and statute have much in common, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

When might regulation be a better fit than statute?

The words regulation and statute can be used in similar contexts, but regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When is rule a more appropriate choice than statute?

The words rule and statute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

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 statute The statute requires the federal government to consider environmental consequences before approving major infrastructure projects. Zach Schonfeld, The Hill, 7 Aug. 2025 Florida statute lets families establish cemeteries of less than two acres that do not sell burial spaces or burial merchandise, according to Florida statute. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 6 Aug. 2025 Some election statutes will have to be suspended If that election is called, officials will launch into action, with only 80 days until November 4th. Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2025 Volunteers who skip the HOA approval process and act without board authority may be outside of the protections of both the statute and the insurance. Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for statute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for statute
Noun
  • But a sprawling expanse of abusive online behavior doesn’t technically violate federal laws or individual company policies.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2025
  • Washington has looked to introduce new laws around crypto and has even launched a bitcoin strategic reserve.
    Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 8 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Breaking through as in independent act has never been tougher.
    James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 14 Aug. 2025
  • The nostalgia has hit music as well, where TRL-era acts like Backstreet Boys, Nelly, the Goo Goo Dolls and Oasis are all enjoying successful residencies and summer tours.
    Ralphie Aversa, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • This year, the average senator filed about 25 bills.
    Romy Ellenbogen, Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2025
  • The bill, penned by Bronx City Councilman Rafael Salamanca, will be formally submitted at the Council’s meeting Thursday.
    Chris Sommerfeldt, New York Daily News, 12 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Last month, just 100 miles southeast of Bob Jones University, the city of Columbia, South Carolina, repealed its ordinance banning conversion therapy.
    Rob Picheta, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2025
  • Merkley said residents will be offered emergency shelter beds, as required by the city ordinance governing camp closures.
    Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • The draft amendments contradict Republican rhetoric about protecting ocean life.
    Ryan Green, Scientific American, 6 Aug. 2025
  • That amendment says that no plan can be drawn to favor or disfavor a political party, along with requiring that districts cannot be drawn to deny equal opportunity to racial minorities.
    Romy Ellenbogen, Miami Herald, 5 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Statute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/statute. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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