the existing rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the existing rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a rule that is currently in place or has been established previously. Example: "According to the existing rule, all participants must submit their entries by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Cuba is the great Caribbean exception to the existing rule.

The New Yorker

The S.E.C. is investigating whether Enron abused the existing rule, but neither statement addressed that question.

The New York Times

The existing rule against diaries was never enforced against "small newspapers," Mr. Servan-Schreiber said.

The New York Times

The purpose of this rule change is simply to tidy up the existing rule".

The Guardian

Clearly an unexploded bomb or a terror conspiracy would constitute a safety threat under the existing rule.

The New York Times

The existing rule requires that before issuing a subpoena for phone records, other ways of obtaining information must be tried first, and the attorney general must sign off.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Further, the paper proposes the adaption of the existing rule-based system ACPLT/RE to the concepts of bidirectional TGG rules to benefit from the possibilities of the TGG concept for model transformation at runtime.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

The existing rules are bad enough.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Everyone recognized the existing rules didn't match the policy".

The New York Times

"All we are doing is applying the existing rules".

The New York Times

Under the existing rules, she was held for a hearing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the existing rule" to contrast it with proposed changes or reforms to emphasize the current framework.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone understands "the existing rule" without providing context. Briefly explain the rule's purpose or application to ensure clarity for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the existing rule" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it referring to regulations, laws, or established procedures. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the existing rule" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to a current regulation or standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for use in written English. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the rule is clearly defined or referenced to avoid ambiguity. While "the existing rule" is versatile, consider alternatives like "the current regulation" or "the present policy" depending on the context to provide more specific meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the current regulation

Replaces "rule" with "regulation", implying a formal and often legally binding standard.

the prevailing guideline

Substitutes "rule" with "guideline", suggesting a recommendation rather than a strict requirement.

the established norm

Replaces "rule" with "norm", focusing on accepted standards of behavior or practice.

the present policy

Uses "policy" instead of "rule", indicating a broader organizational principle or plan.

the applicable law

Replaces "rule" with "law", specifying a legally enforceable regulation.

the standing order

Uses "standing order" to describe a rule that remains in effect until it is explicitly changed or revoked.

the operative principle

Replaces "rule" with "principle", emphasizing a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.

the accepted procedure

Substitutes "rule" with "procedure", indicating a standardized way of doing something.

the status quo

Implies the current state of affairs or the way things are currently done, which may be governed by unspoken rules or understandings.

the conventional method

Replaces "rule" with "method", suggesting a traditional or widely used approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "the existing rule" to refer to a current regulation, such as: "According to the existing rule, all participants must submit their entries by the deadline."

What phrases are similar to "the existing rule"?

Similar phrases include "the current regulation", "the present policy", or "the prevailing guideline", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to specify what "the existing rule" is?

While not always necessary, providing context or a brief explanation of "the existing rule" can prevent confusion and ensure your audience understands the reference.

When is it appropriate to use "the existing rule" versus "the previous rule"?

"The existing rule" refers to the rule currently in effect, while "the previous rule" refers to a rule that has been superseded or replaced. Use "the existing rule" when discussing the current situation and "the previous rule" when discussing changes or historical context.