according to rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to rules" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to imply that something is happening or being done according to a specific set of accepted rules. Example sentence: The election was held according to rules established by the state.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I do my work diligently, according to rules and procedures".

The New York Times - Magazine

But Google should operate within the law rather than according to rules it makes itself.

The Guardian

Israelis, Dr. Cooper said, conjugate verbs according to rules laid down in biblical times.

The New York Times

The grid is generated for each match according to rules that ensure a sufficient supply of vowels and consonants.

The Economist

The only other boules game possibly playable on the terrace is tromperies, & then not played according to rules.

The New Yorker

An information processor, a computer, is a system that transforms its state, according to rules, into a new state.

The New York Times - Books

Vocal lines unfold and repeat according to rules both ancient and invented, and end up sounding suspended in time.

The Guardian - Music

In the absence of a parliament, according to rules belatedly issued by the generals, he should be sworn in by the highest court.

The Economist

Antique furniture was built according to rules of stability and utility, and "if an object fulfills its mission, the chances are that it is beautiful".

The New Yorker

He played a composition game where you write short bits of music and assemble them according to rules and throws of a dice.

Independent

A web of military alliances and international laws and institutions were established or enhanced to ensure that conflicts were resolved according to rules, not by force.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to rules", ensure the context clearly identifies whose rules are being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "according to company rules" or "according to international rules".

Common error

Avoid using "according to rules" without specifying the source or type of rules. Vague references can confuse readers. Be specific: "according to the competition rules" is clearer than just "according to rules".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to rules" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action or decision is made in compliance with a specific set of regulations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to rules" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies compliance with a defined set of guidelines. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase enjoys widespread use in diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific discourse. To ensure clarity, it is beneficial to specify the exact rules being followed. Consider alternatives such as "in compliance with regulations" or "pursuant to guidelines" to add variety to your writing. Common pitfalls include vague references to unspecified rules, which can be easily avoided by explicitly stating the source of the rules.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in compliance with regulations

This alternative highlights adherence to a formal set of regulations.

in line with the rules

This alternative indicates conformity and alignment with established rules.

pursuant to guidelines

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the following of specific guidelines.

as per the regulations

This phrase emphasizes that the action is dictated by the regulations.

consistent with guidelines

This alternative suggests a coherence and agreement to the given guidelines.

following established protocols

This option emphasizes sticking to a predefined procedure and it's useful when rules are complex and well-structured.

under the provisions of

This option stresses that actions are sanctioned and legitimized by certain provisions.

subject to the policy

This alternative emphasizes that operations/actions are constrained and shaped by the stated policy.

governed by the precepts

This expresses the idea that actions or processes are under the influence and guided by certain principles or established rules.

in accordance with stipulations

This phrase stresses that actions, plans or considerations happen in a way that fulfills particular terms or conditions.

FAQs

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

You can use "according to rules" to indicate that an action or decision is made in compliance with a specific set of regulations or guidelines. For example: "The game was played "according to rules" established by the International Federation".

What phrases are similar to "according to rules"?

Similar phrases include "in compliance with regulations", "pursuant to guidelines", or "as per the regulations".

When is it appropriate to use "according to rules" in formal writing?

It is appropriate to use "according to rules" in formal writing when you need to emphasize that an action or procedure is being followed as prescribed by established guidelines or regulations. Using more formal alternatives like "in accordance with stipulations" may also be appropriate depending on the context.

Is "according to rules" grammatically correct?

Yes, "according to rules" is grammatically correct. It functions as a prepositional phrase indicating adherence to or compliance with a set of regulations.