rules are followed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rules are followed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that certain guidelines or regulations are being adhered to in a specific context. Example: "In our organization, it is essential that rules are followed to maintain a safe and productive work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In order to do this, the following three rules are followed: 1.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Don't assume that security rules are followed.

Stanford University

If the rules are followed, peacekeeping tends to work.

The New York Times

To a remarkable degree, the rules are followed.

The New York Times - Sports

Structures and components behave well in earthquakes, if simple design and verification rules are followed.

Nuclear Safety

If the seamless romantic drama follows Hollywood formulas, it's not often the rules are followed so deftly.

The New York Times

They say that in making sure rules are followed, they are helping consumers by limiting health care costs.

The New York Times

If this seamless romantic drama follows Hollywood formulas, it's not often that the rules are followed so deftly.

The New York Times

As long as all the rules are followed and processes are adhered to I don't see any problem".

The Guardian - Sport

However, if some rules are followed in constructing the topology for the mesh, the symmetry can be preserved.

Engineering Structures

The chair ensures the Democratic party's complex rules are followed and that an accurate vote is taken and then reported to state Democratic party.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about standards or regulations, ensure that you clearly state which "rules" you are referring to for maximum clarity. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly naming the governing body or document that outlines the rules.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the phrase "rules are followed" inherently implies a positive outcome. Instead, assess whether rules are followed effectively and ethically within the specific situation you are describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rules are followed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a set of regulations, laws, or guidelines are being adhered to. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently used to convey compliance and order.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rules are followed" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey that guidelines, regulations, or laws are being adhered to. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase enjoys widespread usage across various contexts, including news, scientific publications, and formal business communications. While neutral in tone, it's crucial to be explicit about which rules are being referenced and to critically assess the effectiveness of their application. Alternative phrases like "guidelines are adhered to" or "regulations are observed" can provide subtle nuances in meaning, allowing for greater precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guidelines are adhered to

Changes the noun to 'guidelines' and the verb to 'adhered to', implying a stricter compliance.

regulations are observed

Replaces 'rules' with 'regulations' and 'followed' with 'observed', suggesting a more formal and official setting.

protocols are implemented

Focuses on the practical execution of established procedures.

procedures are respected

Emphasizes the importance of respecting established routines.

directives are obeyed

Highlights a hierarchical structure where instructions are given and compliance is expected.

stipulations are met

Focuses on fulfilling specific conditions or requirements.

requirements are satisfied

Highlights that certain needs or expectations are fulfilled.

precepts are honored

Emphasizes that principles are kept and respected.

laws are enforced

Focuses on the enforcement of legal standards.

policies are upheld

Underlines the act of supporting and maintaining the policies.

FAQs

How can I use "rules are followed" in a sentence?

You can use "rules are followed" to indicate adherence to guidelines or regulations. For example: "In our organization, it is essential that "rules are followed" to maintain a safe work environment."

What are some alternatives to "rules are followed"?

Alternatives include phrases like "guidelines are adhered to", "regulations are observed", or "protocols are implemented", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "rules are followed" or "rules are obeyed"?

Both are correct, but "rules are followed" is more neutral, whereas "rules are obeyed" implies a hierarchical structure where compliance is expected. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.

What does it mean when someone says "rules are followed to the letter"?

This means that the rules are followed exactly and precisely, without any deviation from the literal wording or intention.