make up rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make up rules" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of creating or establishing rules, often in a context where the rules are not formally recognized or are arbitrary. Example: "In our game, we can make up rules as we go along to keep things interesting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"I make up rules.

The New York Times - Arts

I don't know what the team rules are there, but it seems like they make up rules just for him.

The New York Times - Sports

We're trying to make them up, other people make up rules and want everybody else to go by their rules.

The New York Times - Arts

"I know the Clinton campaign seems to want to make up rules as they go along on this issue," Mr. Obama said.

The New York Times

Working aboard his battered 42-foot wooden vessel, the Saint John, Mr. Nguyen said: "Somebody in Austin need a job so they make up rules.

The New York Times

"When police make up rules as they go along," former councilman Karriem said, "it creates blatant mistrust between the police and the communities that they are policing".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

People are making up rules as they go along and we're out here to support the rule of law".

The New York Times

Sanctioning never works – people with more money than most people can dream of, making up rules to take those with nothing into minus nothing.

The Guardian

If you just start making up rules every five seconds, your teen is going to be confused and things will get out of hand.

WikiHow

We ran into a new, seemingly made-up rule every day".

The New York Times

The city's art and party scene already has a reputation for hedonism, a seize-the-day attitude that includes making up rules as it goes along.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the tone when using "make up rules", as it can sometimes imply arbitrariness or a lack of seriousness.

Common error

Avoid using "make up rules" without providing context. While it implies creating rules, it can also suggest a lack of legitimacy. Ensure clarity by specifying who is creating the rules and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make up rules" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It describes the act of creating or inventing rules. Ludwig confirms its usability, with examples across various contexts demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make up rules" is a common phrasal verb used to describe the act of creating or inventing rules, often in an informal context. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples from news, media and wiki sources. While generally neutral to informal, the tone can sometimes imply arbitrariness, so context is key. Consider alternatives such as "establish rules" or "create regulations" for more formal settings. Remember to clarify who is creating the rules and why to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establish rules

Focuses on the act of formally setting up rules.

Create regulations

Implies a more formal and structured process of rule-making.

Formulate guidelines

Suggests creating more general recommendations rather than strict rules.

Devise a framework

Emphasizes the creation of a structure within which rules can operate.

Set parameters

Highlights the setting of limits and boundaries.

Lay down stipulations

Indicates imposing specific conditions or requirements.

Define protocols

Implies establishing a set of procedures or standards.

Establish procedures

Focuses on making established methods for something.

Originate principles

Highlights the origin and initial conceptualization of rules.

Institute norms

Suggests establishing customary standards of behavior.

FAQs

What does "make up rules" mean?

The phrase "make up rules" means to create or invent rules, often in an informal or ad hoc manner. It can imply the rules are not officially recognized or are being created as needed.

How can I use "make up rules" in a sentence?

You can use "make up rules" in a sentence like this: "When playing the game, we "make up rules" as we go along to keep it interesting."

What are some alternatives to "make up rules"?

Alternatives to "make up rules" include "establish rules", "create regulations", or "formulate guidelines" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "make up rules"?

It is appropriate to "make up rules" in informal settings, such as during games or when adapting to unexpected situations. However, in formal settings, it's better to "establish rules" through proper channels.