rule of law

USAGE SUMMARY

"rule of law" is a correct and usable phrase in written English that means the legal principles that govern a society.
For example: "The rule of law states that everyone must abide by the same laws and regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Rule of Law.

The Economist

The rule of law prevailed.

The Economist

The rule of law can be inconvenient.

The New York Times

"There is no rule of law".

The New York Times

He spoke of the rule of law.

The New Yorker

"I believe in the rule of law".

The New York Times

Number four, the rule of law.

The New York Times

There is respect for rule of law.

The New York Times

This is about basic rule of law.

The New York Times

The rule of law ultimately prevails.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Video: Russia's Rule-Of-Law Debate.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal systems or governance, use "rule of law" to emphasize that everyone, including those in power, are subject to the law. This ensures clarity and reinforces the principle of equality before the law.

Common error

Don't confuse "rule of law", which means everyone is subject to the law, with 'rule by law', where the law is merely a tool for the government to control the population. The former promotes justice and equality, while the latter can lead to authoritarianism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rule of law" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It is used to denote a fundamental principle of governance and societal organization, where all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rule of law" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that denotes the principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to the law. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is frequently used in news, academic, and formal contexts. It emphasizes fairness, equality, and accountability under the law. Related phrases include "supremacy of the law" and "legal principles". A best practice is to use "rule of law" when discussing legal systems to highlight equality before the law, while avoiding confusion with 'rule by law', which implies government control through law. In essence, understanding and correctly employing "rule of law" reinforces its significance in discussions of governance and justice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

supremacy of the law

Stresses that the law is the highest authority.

government of laws

Stresses governance based on laws, not individuals.

legal principles

Focuses on the underlying principles rather than the system itself.

order under law

Emphasizes that the law promotes social stability.

principles of legality

Highlights foundational concepts of law.

legal system

Emphasizes the structure and organization of the law.

legal framework

Refers to the structure of laws and regulations.

due process

Highlights the fairness and procedural correctness of legal proceedings.

constitutionalism

Highlights adherence to a constitution.

justice system

Focuses on the institutions that administer justice.

FAQs

How do you use "rule of law" in a sentence?

You can use "rule of law" in a sentence like: "The stability of a democratic society depends on the "rule of law" and the fair administration of justice."

What's the difference between "rule of law" and "legal system"?

"Rule of law" is a principle where everyone is subject to the law, ensuring equality and justice. "Legal system" is the structure and organization of laws and the institutions that enforce them. The "legal system" is the apparatus through which the "rule of law" is maintained.

Which is correct, "rule of law" or "rule of laws"?

"Rule of law" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Rule of laws" is grammatically incorrect and not standard usage.

What can I say instead of "rule of law"?

You can use alternatives like "supremacy of the law", "legal principles", or "due process" depending on the specific context.