according to law

USAGE SUMMARY

"according to law" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to regulations or statutes that are in place in a particular locale. For example, "The bars must close at 10 pm according to law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both cases would be handled "according to law" and in accordance with China's legal/judicial system.

The Guardian

"We handle cases according to law".

The Guardian - Tech

The appointment was according to law".

The New York Times

"It is carried out according to law and procedure".

The New York Times

"Everything must be done according to law," he said.

The New York Times

"Wait," Mr. Cruz called out, according to law enforcement officials.

The New York Times

Such operations are prohibited for use against American citizens, according to law and regulation.

The New York Times

Smaller restaurants are also increasingly becoming victims of petty oil thefts, according to law enforcement officials.

The New York Times

According to law, education is free and, at the primary level, compulsory for all children.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Florida court mentioned the legislature when justifying its decision according to law.

The Economist

More often, though, stolen tires are peddled online, according to law enforcement officials.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to law", ensure you're referring to a specific legal framework or statute. Avoid vague references without legal backing.

Common error

Don't use "according to law" loosely to add authority to a statement without actual legal basis. Always verify the legal reference to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to law" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating that an action, decision, or statement is in compliance with, or based on, existing legal statutes and regulations. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to law" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase that signifies compliance with legal statutes. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources, it serves to provide legal justification and authority to statements. When using the phrase, it's best practice to ensure direct reference to a legitimate legal framework. Alternatives include "in accordance with the law" and "pursuant to law" for more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in accordance with the law

This alternative emphasizes compliance and conformity with the established legal framework, stressing adherence to legal requirements.

under the provisions of the law

This alternative highlights specific sections or clauses of a law that are relevant to a situation.

as prescribed by law

This suggests that the action is mandated or directed by the law.

legally

A single word emphasizing actions that are permissible by the law.

within the bounds of the law

This phrase emphasizes the limitations and constraints imposed by legal boundaries.

pursuant to law

A formal alternative that signifies actions taken as a result of or in connection with a law.

in compliance with legal requirements

This stresses that all necessary legal standards are met.

consistent with the law

This option highlights that something is in harmony with and not contradictory to legal standards.

by legal authority

This alternative shows that the action or decision is backed by the law.

subject to legal constraints

This emphasizes the limitations that the law imposes on certain actions.

FAQs

How can I use "according to law" in a sentence?

Use "according to law" to indicate that something is required, permitted, or regulated by legal statutes, for example, "All businesses must comply with safety regulations "according to law"."

What's a more formal alternative to "according to law"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "in accordance with the law" or "pursuant to law", particularly in legal or official documents.

Is it correct to say "according to the law" instead of "according to law"?

Both "according to law" and "according to the law" are generally acceptable. The inclusion of "the" often depends on the context, with "the" adding a sense of specificity or referring to a particular body of law.

What's the difference between "according to law" and "under the law"?

"According to law" refers to compliance or alignment with legal statutes, while "under the law" typically implies protection, rights, or obligations as defined by the legal system.