rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing guidelines, regulations, or principles that govern behavior or actions. Example: "The most important rule in our organization is to always communicate openly and honestly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But more of his counterparts seem to view restoring the rule as a step backward.

The New York Times

"Scoring is not up, but injuries are up," Tallon said of the current rule last week.

The New York Times

Pinker calls this offense "a schoolteacher rule" that is "a product of the usual three confusions: English with Latin, informal style with incorrect grammar, and syntax with semantics".

The Economist

"People must be held to account for their actions under the rule of law and in the case of Mr Downey clearly a dreadful mistake was made by him receiving that letter".

The Guardian

If the court were to rule the law unconstitutional when it issues its decision in June, it could prove a significant blow to Obama's re-election campaign by striking down his most important piece of legislation and bolstering conservative opposition.

The Guardian

My party and, indeed, the Conservative party have been on record as being very against the proposal by the previous Labour government, for instance, to legislate for a wider amnesty and we want to see the rule of law always be applied.

The Guardian

"We will propose a 'double majority' rule – meaning that unless England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each vote to leave the EU, as well as the UK as a whole, Britain would remain a member state".

The Guardian

"You cheerfully break every rule of the theatre that I was brought up to believe in, except the cardinal one of never boring for a split-second".

The Economist

Gina McCarthy, who heads the EPA, said in a press call last week that her agency had found that 80% of small business owners supported the rule, as did a majority of those individuals and organizations who submitted public comments in the run-up to the rule's introduction.

The Guardian

At the end of April, Heitkamp introduced bipartisan legislation in the Senate to re-write the rule, with the backing of other Democratic senators, including Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia, which produces around 15% of America's fossil fuel energy, according to the region's department of commerce.

The Guardian

He also goes for the popular vote: he said that he would introduce a bank tax but then, when asked whether he would increase VAT or income tax, said: "No chancellor could rule that out".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rule" as a noun, ensure it is clear whether you are referring to a specific regulation or a general principle. For clarity, specify the context in which the "rule" applies.

Common error

Avoid confusing "rule" (a regulation or principle) with "ruler" (a measuring device or a person who governs). Always double-check your spelling and context to ensure the correct word is used.

Linguistic Context

The word "rule" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a regulation, principle, or guideline that governs conduct or actions. It can also function as a verb, meaning to govern or control. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "rule" is a versatile word used both as a noun and a verb, denoting regulations, principles, or the act of governing. Grammatically sound, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its high frequency and presence in various sources like The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Economist, make it a very common term in English. When writing, be careful not to confuse "rule" with "ruler". Consider related phrases like "regulation", "principle", or "guideline" to add precision to your language. Understanding "rule" in its various contexts will enhance clarity and effectiveness in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

law

Implies a formally enacted and legally binding statute.

regulation

Focuses more specifically on the formal aspect of a governing principle.

principle

Highlights a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.

guideline

Suggests a less strict and more advisory form of instruction.

standard

Refers to a level of quality or attainment that is considered acceptable or desirable.

convention

Emphasizes an agreement or custom within a particular group or context.

precept

Indicates a general command or principle intended as a guide to conduct.

criterion

Highlights a principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided.

edict

Implies an official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority.

decree

Suggests a formal and authoritative order, often with legal force.

FAQs

How can I use "rule" in a sentence?

You can use "rule" in sentences like: "All participants must adhere to the rules." or "As a general rule, we avoid scheduling meetings on Fridays."

What's the difference between "rule" and "regulation"?

"Rule" is a general term for a principle or instruction, while "regulation" refers specifically to a law or administrative code issued by an organization.

Are there synonyms for the word "rule"?

Yes, synonyms for "rule" include "regulation", "principle", "guideline", and "law" depending on the context.

What does it mean to "rule out" something?

To "rule out" something means to exclude it as a possibility or option. For example, "The detective ruled out the suspect due to lack of evidence."