according to the rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to the rules" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation in which someone is following a set of pre-defined guidelines. For example: "The candidate answered all of the questions correctly according to the rules of the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We have just to do according to the rules.

Independent

He did not play the game according to the rules".

The New York Times - Books

For chess the users pick one of their pieces and move it according to the rules.

Cornell University

The controller's parameters are coded and evolved according to the rules of the associated membrane.

Acta Automatica Sinica

"I mean, the criminal justice system didn't succeed even though it proceeded according to the rules.

The New York Times

"Exorcisms aren't just done according to the rules of the ritual".

The New York Times

To answer according to the rules of grammar, we must supply a noun, a thing.

The New York Times

The object of the game, according to the rules, is to gain control of the continent.

The New Yorker

The price they pay – according to the rules of the game – is a kind of omertà.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

According to the rules, "prolonged gyrations" will not be tolerated.

The New Yorker

Blood glucose was monitored, and insulin was administered according to the rules/suggestions of each protocol.

Diabetes Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to the rules", ensure the specific rules you're referencing are clear to the reader. This might involve briefly stating the source or context of the rules.

Common error

Avoid using "according to the rules" without specifying which rules you are referring to. Always provide enough context so the reader understands the source and scope of the rules in question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to the rules" functions as a prepositional phrase, often serving as an adverbial modifier. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used to specify that an action, decision, or process aligns with established regulations or guidelines. It provides context and legitimacy to a statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

34%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to the rules" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase indicating compliance with established guidelines. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, especially in news, science, and academic fields. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the rules being referenced. Alternatives like "in compliance with the rules" or "following the regulations" can be used for slight variations in tone or formality. This phrase serves to legitimize and contextualize information by grounding it in a recognized framework.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in compliance with the rules

Emphasizes adherence to regulations; slightly more formal.

following the regulations

Focuses on the act of adhering to a set of official requirements.

in accordance with the guidelines

Highlights agreement and conformity with specific instructions.

consistent with the rules

Stresses uniformity and alignment with established norms.

pursuant to the regulations

A formal and legalistic way of saying "according to".

under the provisions

Implies acting within the specific terms outlined in a document.

as per the rules

A slightly more concise and direct alternative.

subject to the rules

Highlights that the action is conditional upon the regulations.

governed by the rules

Indicates that the regulations have authority over the action.

by the book

Informal, meaning to follow procedures exactly.

FAQs

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

Use "according to the rules" to indicate that something is done in compliance with a specific set of regulations or guidelines. For example, "The game was played "according to the rules" of the association".

What are some alternatives to "according to the rules"?

You can use alternatives such as "in compliance with the rules", "following the regulations", or "in accordance with the guidelines".

Is it better to say "according to the rules" or "in accordance with the rules"?

Both phrases are correct, but "in accordance with the rules" is generally considered more formal than ""according to the rules"". The best choice depends on the context and desired tone.

When should I use "by the book" instead of "according to the rules"?

"By the book" is an informal idiom that means following procedures exactly. Use it in casual contexts. "According to the rules" is more appropriate in formal situations when precision and compliance are important.