disregard the rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disregard the rules" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to ignore established guidelines or regulations in a specific context. Example: "In this creative project, feel free to express yourself freely and disregard the rules that typically apply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"You can't be a member of the club and disregard the rules," he said.

The New York Times

"You can't be a member of the club and disregard the rules".

The New York Times

"The best writers," admitted Strunk, "sometimes disregard the rules of rhetoric".

The Guardian - Books

Folks who have no respect for the law disregard the rules and drive where ever they want.

Stanford University

The Turkish president [Recep Tayyip Erdoğan] publicly encouraged local officials to disregard the rules if need be.

The Guardian

Swearengin argued he was authorised to disregard the rules of the road even without his sirens on.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

But after getting a ticket, he had not dared to disregard the rule.

The New York Times

But Obama, in what is known as a signing statement, forecast that he may disregard the rule because he believed that it unlawfully restrained his presidential authority.

The Washington Post

The department has also said that the case law is clear that an individual judge has no authority to disregard the rule prohibiting the broadcasting of any federal criminal trial.

The New York Times

Restricting the number of passengers who are not family members is among the most common regulations in the early phases, but Dr. Morris said most parents disregard the rule once that time expires.

The New York Times

Neither can it disregard the rule of law".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "disregard the rules" in creative writing, consider the specific context and the character's motivations. Is it a conscious act of rebellion, or a careless oversight?

Common error

Avoid using "disregard the rules" when a more specific term like "violate the law" or "ignore the protocol" would be more accurate. Precision enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disregard the rules" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It is used to describe the action of ignoring or not following established guidelines, regulations, or norms. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

7%

Formal & business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disregard the rules" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the act of ignoring or violating established guidelines. While relatively uncommon, it appears across various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general discussions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific context and whether a more precise term might be more appropriate. Alternatives include phrases like "ignore the regulations" or "defy the norms", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ignore the regulations

Focuses specifically on neglecting formal regulations rather than general rules.

violate the guidelines

Emphasizes a more forceful breach of specific guidelines.

defy the norms

Highlights a rebellious act against established social norms.

flout the conventions

Suggests an open and contemptuous disregard for accepted conventions.

transgress the boundaries

Implies exceeding defined limits or boundaries, often with negative consequences.

disobey the orders

Refers specifically to a failure to comply with direct commands or instructions.

breach the code

Indicates a violation of a set of principles or standards, often in a professional context.

infringe the protocol

Highlights a failure to adhere to established procedures or etiquette.

contravene the law

Specifies a direct conflict with legal statutes or regulations.

disrespect the customs

Indicates a lack of regard for traditional practices or societal norms.

FAQs

How can I use "disregard the rules" in a sentence?

You can use "disregard the rules" to describe someone who ignores or violates established guidelines, such as: "The company decided to "disregard the rules" and implement its own policies."

What's a more formal way to say "disregard the rules"?

In a more formal setting, consider using phrases like "violate the guidelines" or "contravene the law" depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "disregard the rules" in a creative context?

For creative writing, consider alternatives like "defy the norms" or "flout the conventions" to add a layer of rebellion or contempt.

Is it always negative to "disregard the rules"?

While often negative, ""disregard the rules"" can sometimes be seen as positive, particularly when challenging outdated or unjust regulations. However, this depends heavily on context and intent.