skirting the rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "skirting the rules" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who is avoiding or circumventing rules or regulations, often in a clever or sneaky way. Example: "The athlete was accused of skirting the rules to gain an unfair advantage in the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

As for skirting the rules?

The New York Times

But there is a lure to skirting the rules.

The New York Times - Sports

But to his credit, Prince Jigyel Ugyen is a stickler for skirting the rules legally.

The New York Times - Sports

Know that skirting the rules may actually help you get elected.

The Washington Post

And, without skirting the rules, it can even support additional education and job training.

The New York Times

Or with a new watchdog, pols being more careful about slipping up or skirting the rules?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"I try and skirt the rules," he said.

The New York Times

The report did not say whether any lenders appeared to have intentionally skirted the rules.

The New York Times

Kreuger had previously skirted the rules but, technically speaking, didn't engage in outright fraud.

The New Yorker

In seeking to keep her State Department e-mails from prying eyes, she clearly skirted the rules.

The New Yorker

Runners have found several inventive ways to skirt the rules, if not parts of the course.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "skirting the rules", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific rules being avoided and the manner in which they are being circumvented. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "skirting the rules" as a sensationalized term. Ensure the situation genuinely involves clever or subtle avoidance rather than blatant rule-breaking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "skirting the rules" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the action of avoiding or circumventing rules, regulations, or laws. This is consistent with Ludwig's analysis that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "skirting the rules" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of avoiding or circumventing rules or regulations without directly breaking them. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is versatile enough for various contexts, though most frequently found in News & Media. While alternatives like "bending the rules" or "evading the rules" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance one wishes to convey. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the rules being skirted and avoid sensationalizing its use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoiding the rules

This is a more general term, suggesting simply staying away from the rules.

bending the rules

This alternative suggests a less severe action than outright breaking the rules. It implies adjusting the rules to fit a situation.

circumventing the regulations

This phrase implies a more calculated and strategic way of avoiding rules, often through loopholes.

bypassing the regulations

This alternative suggests finding a way around the rules without directly confronting them.

evading the rules

This suggests actively avoiding detection while not necessarily breaking the rules directly.

finding loopholes

This focuses on exploiting ambiguities or oversights in the rules.

flouting the rules

This implies openly disregarding or showing contempt for the rules.

stretching the boundaries

Implies testing the limits of what is allowed without explicitly breaking the rules.

dancing around the rules

Suggests skillfully maneuvering to avoid direct conflict with the rules.

playing fast and loose with the rules

This phrase implies a careless or reckless approach to the rules.

FAQs

What does "skirting the rules" mean?

The phrase "skirting the rules" refers to avoiding or circumventing rules or regulations, often in a clever or subtle way. It implies not directly breaking the rules, but finding ways to operate within their boundaries while still achieving a desired outcome.

How can I use "skirting the rules" in a sentence?

You can use "skirting the rules" to describe actions that bypass or evade regulations without explicitly violating them. For example, "The company was accused of "skirting the rules" to minimize their tax liability."

What are some alternatives to "skirting the rules"?

Alternatives to "skirting the rules" include "bending the rules", "circumventing the regulations", or "evading the rules". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the degree to which the rules are being avoided.

Is there a negative connotation associated with "skirting the rules"?

Yes, "skirting the rules" often carries a negative connotation, implying that the actions are somewhat unethical or underhanded, even if they are not strictly illegal. The perception depends on the specific situation and the intent behind "skirting the rules".