a rule against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a rule against" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a rule or regulation that prohibits or restricts certain actions or behavior. Example: There is a rule against smoking in the office building. (This means that it is not allowed to smoke inside the office building.) Another example: The city has a rule against loud noises after 10 pm. (This means that it is not allowed to make loud noises after 10 pm in the city.).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Louise Penny applies her magic touch to A RULE AGAINST MURDER (Minotaur, $24.95), giving the village mystery an elegance and depth not often seen in this traditional genre.

The New York Times - Books

And there's a rule against that.

The New York Times

But there was a rule against that.

The New Yorker

There should be a rule against issuers paying for ratings.

The New York Times

There is a rule against smoking at the Public Library.

The New Yorker

There must be a rule against substitution in menus.

The New York Times

Q. -- There was literally a rule against students starting companies?

The New York Times

To reinforce the sense that this is not a bank, there is a rule against transactions.

The Economist

If there wasn't a rule against drinking from the ladle before, there is now.

The New York Times

For years, a rule against copying your neighbor's order was observed fairly strictly.

The New Yorker

He has a rule against buying pornography domains, another potentially profitable endeavor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a rule against", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prohibited or restricted to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a rule against smoking" rather than just "a rule".

Common error

Avoid stating the rule without specifying the exact action or behavior it prohibits. Saying "there's a rule" without clarifying what it's against can lead to confusion. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a rule against" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a regulation or prohibition. It is used to express that something is not allowed or is restricted by a specific rule. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a rule against" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a prohibition or restriction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and adaptable to various writing styles. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register. For clarity, always specify what the rule prohibits and consider alternatives like "a ban on" or "a restriction upon" for nuanced communication. Avoiding overly broad generalizations ensures your message is clear and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a ban on

A simpler and more direct way of expressing a prohibition.

a prohibition on

Emphasizes the act of forbidding something; more formal.

a regulation preventing

Focuses on the preventative nature of the rule.

a law forbidding

Indicates a legal prohibition.

a restriction upon

Highlights the limiting aspect of the rule.

a policy opposing

Implies a formal stance against something.

a guideline discouraging

Suggests a weaker form of rule, more advisory.

constraints against

Similar to limits, but may apply more broadly than policies or regulations.

limits on

General term suggesting constraints or boundaries.

impediments to

Focuses on obstruction or hindrance.

FAQs

How can I use "a rule against" in a sentence?

You can use "a rule against" to indicate a prohibition or restriction. For instance, "There is "a rule against smoking" in this area" or "The company has "a rule against nepotism"".

What are some alternatives to "a rule against"?

Alternatives include "a prohibition on", "a restriction upon", or "a ban on". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "a rule against" or "a rule for"?

"A rule against" indicates a prohibition, while "a rule for" indicates a prescription or guideline. They have opposite meanings, so choose the one that accurately reflects the intended meaning. Example: "a rule against littering" vs. "a rule for recycling".

What's the difference between "a rule against" and "policy opposing"?

"A rule against" suggests a specific regulation, while "policy opposing" indicates a more general stance or principle. A "policy opposing" may be broader than "a rule against" and might encompass multiple specific rules or guidelines.