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 neither mentions tariffs (or any of its synonyms) nor has procedural safeguards that contain clear limits on the President's power to impose tariffs. Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025 Indeed, some states have adopted statutes that explicitly prohibit tracking an older adult without consent. Nina A. Kohn, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 Advocates say a federal statute known as Section 230 needs updating to apply to AI platforms. Mark Guarino, ABC News, 30 Aug. 2025 These changes are not helpful to communities, but must be carefully observed by HOAs because under Civil Code 5855(g) any discipline imposed by boards is unenforceable if the statute is not followed. Kelly G. Richardson, Oc Register, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for statute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for statute
Noun
  • The grants were allocated under President Joe Biden's signature Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, an anti-gun violence law signed after the mass school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
    Oren Oppenheim, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Aside from his signature 2021 criminal justice bill, Cooper signed legislation into law in 2020, allowing judges to reduce mandatory minimum sentences mandated by law for drug offenders.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • That brief three-month double act between an executive chairman and a CEO is now over.
    Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Though his interests were that of a pretty typical child — computing and gaming, playing the saxophone, enjoying soccer and time with his pets — he was also known for his acts of kindness and generosity.
    Lauren Costantino September 6, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The moratorium provision was ultimately stripped from the bill before final passage.
    Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2025
  • The 29-year-old agreed with the caveat that the 31-year-old friend would fit the bill for all of the ingredients used for the food.
    Brian Anthony Hernandez, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • O’Connell updated a city ordinance that required immigration enforcement to be reported to his office, and endorsed The Belonging Fund, which provided aid to families affected by the raids.
    David Weigel, semafor.com, 5 Sep. 2025
  • In May, the West Memphis City Council unanimously approved two ordinances authorizing a $10 billion payment-in-lieu of taxes agreement between the city and an unnamed company.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Because Lewis’ legislation is a constitutional amendment, the changes to the voter threshold would have to be approved by voters on a statewide ballot measure in 2026.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Most soil amendments take a while to become incorporated in gardens and lawns, and many take a year or more to start benefiting plants.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Statute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/statute. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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