on the rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the rule" is not commonly used in written English and may not be clear without context.
It could be used in contexts discussing adherence to a specific guideline or regulation, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "The committee decided to act on the rule regarding member conduct."

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Work on the rule update continues.

The Washington Post

Public comment on the rule is open until May 31.

The New York Times

It is built on the rule of law.

The New York Times

A brazen attack on the rule of law.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rep. 725, and other cases resting on the rule expounded in those cases.

Cornell University

The public will have 60 days to submit comments on the rule before it is finalized.

Yale University

The effect of restitution on the rule of law is also disputed.

Columbia University

Suppliant Women reflects on war and on the rule of law.

Harvard University

The total failure probability was determined based on the rule of total probability.

Thin-Walled Structures

The proposed type of hierarchical fuzzy systems is based on the rule base hierarchy.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Others, mostly Wall Street lawyers and lobbyists, frown on the rule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace "on the rule" with more descriptive options, for example: "based on the rule", "according to the rule", "depending on the rule".

Common error

Avoid relying heavily on the phrase "on the rule" in formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "in accordance with the rule" or "pursuant to the rule" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the rule" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate a condition, basis, or dependence related to a specific rule. It specifies circumstances or guidelines under which an action or decision occurs, as seen in examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

31%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the rule" is a prepositional phrase that signifies a connection, dependence, or action based on a specific regulation. While grammatically acceptable, it's often beneficial to use clearer and more formal alternatives like "according to the rule" or "based on the rule", especially in formal writing. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase appears across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic domains, making it a versatile but potentially ambiguous choice. Using more precise alternatives ensures clarity and strengthens the overall impact of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on the rule

This phrase suggests that something is determined or derived from a specific rule.

in accordance with the rule

This highlights conformity or adherence to an established rule.

according to the rule

This alternative indicates compliance or alignment with a specific regulation or guideline.

depending on the rule

This signifies that something varies or is conditional based on the specific rule in question.

as per the rule

This is a shortened, slightly less formal way of saying "according to the rule".

subject to the rule

This indicates that something is governed or controlled by a particular rule.

under the rule

This implies being governed or influenced by a specific regulation.

pursuant to the rule

This suggests an action is carried out in compliance with the rule.

within the rule

This signifies being contained or allowed by the parameters of a rule.

guided by the rule

This suggests direction or influence from a particular rule.

FAQs

What does "on the rule" mean?

"On the rule" generally implies a connection, dependence, or action taken in relation to a specific rule or regulation. It can mean something is influenced, decided, or based upon that rule.

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

You might say, "The decision was made on the rule that all employees must attend the training." However, consider alternatives like "based "based on the rule"" or "according "according to the rule"" for improved clarity.

What can I say instead of "on the rule"?

Consider using phrases like "according "according to the rule"", "based "based on the rule"", "in compliance with the rule", or "depending "depending on the rule"", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it better to say "on the rule" or "according to the rule"?

"According "according to the rule"" is often clearer and more formal than "on the rule". While "on the rule" is acceptable, using alternatives can enhance precision in your writing.