apply the rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"apply the rule" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to emphasize that someone should follow a rule or directive. For example, you could say "Please apply the rule that all students must be in their seats by 8:30am".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Roughly, it instructs to always apply the rule with the highest priority first.

SEP

You must also apply "the rule of seven touches".

The New Yorker

The key is to apply the rule ruthlessly.

Independent

With that done, most photographers will naturally apply the rule of thirds.

The New York Times

To apply the rule of proportionality to men's and women's collegiate athletics amounts to a feminist form of sex discrimination.

The New York Times

"It shows we want to apply the rule of law and not let the desire for revenge take over".

The New York Times

These cases could help strengthen Turkish democracy — provided the government and the judiciary scrupulously apply the rule of law.

The New York Times

"The only way to fight terrorism is to apply the rule of law, and some emergency measures for just one month, to bring back law and order".

The New York Times

The league made clear it believes it could apply the rule unilaterally as long as it gives the union the opportunity to review it.

The New York Times

And some apply the Rule of 20, although I believe that this should be used only when you know you will not pass, but cannot decide whether to open with a one-bid or with a pre-empt.

The New York Times

Representatives from a handful of refugee aid groups said they were still waiting for the the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release guidelines on how to apply the rule change.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply the rule", ensure the context clearly defines which rule is being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For clarity, it is helpful to explicitly state the rule being applied.

Common error

Avoid using "apply the rule" without specifying which rule is being applied. This can lead to confusion if the audience isn't aware of the specific regulation or guideline you're referencing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply the rule" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express the action of implementing or enforcing a specific regulation, guideline, or principle. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apply the rule" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the implementation or enforcement of a regulation or guideline. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, it instructs, informs, or persuades adherence to established procedures. When using "apply the rule", ensure the context clearly defines which rule is being referenced and consider alternatives like "implement the rule" or "enforce the rule" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implement the rule

Focuses more on the execution and putting the rule into effect.

enforce the rule

Emphasizes the act of ensuring compliance with the rule.

execute the regulation

Similar to implementing, but often used in more formal contexts.

put the rule into practice

Highlights the practical application of the rule.

administer the rule

Implies a more formal and systematic application of the rule, often by an authority.

carry out the rule

Focuses on the action of performing or fulfilling the requirements of the rule.

give effect to the rule

A more formal way of saying to make the rule operative or valid.

practice the rule

Focuses on habitually using the rule.

invoke the rule

Highlights the act of calling upon the rule as justification or authority.

adhere to the rule

Focuses on following or complying with the rule.

FAQs

How can I use "apply the rule" in a sentence?

You can use "apply the rule" to indicate that a specific guideline or regulation should be followed in a particular situation. For instance, "We must "apply the rule" regarding dress code during formal events".

What are some alternatives to "apply the rule"?

Alternatives include "implement the rule", "enforce the rule", or "put the rule into practice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "apply the rule" or "follow the rule"?

While both are correct, ""apply the rule"" suggests a more active implementation of a regulation, whereas "follow the rule" implies adherence or compliance.

What does it mean to "apply the rule of law"?

To "apply the rule of law" means to ensure that laws are enforced fairly and equally, preventing arbitrary use of power. It emphasizes that everyone is subject to the law.