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

Examples of statute in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The statute does not specify the lieutenant governor's office placing the text in newspapers. Kim Bojórquez, Axios, 1 Oct. 2024 Furthermore, payments made under other IDR plans would count toward loan forgiveness under the IBR statute. Adam S. Minsky, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 That’s the clarion call of an open letter released Wednesday by California state Senators Nancy Skinner and Steven Bradford, the joint authors of the Fair Pay to Play Act, the nation’s first NIL statute. Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 9 Oct. 2024 Between the lines: Bonta alleges TikTok violated California's consumer protection statutes, the Unfair Competition Law, and the False Advertising Law. Kate Murphy, Axios, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for statute 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'statute.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near statute

Cite this Entry

“Statute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/statute. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on statute

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!