the rules by which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the rules by which" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the specific rules that determine or govern a certain situation. For example, "We must adhere to the rules by which the game is played."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Lawyers should not be responsible for, or allowed to, make the rules by which we live.

Independent

Voice is the ability of social groups to choose the rules by which they are governed.

Columbia University

"Nor did it justify breaking the rules by which American justice is supposed to be administered," Mr. Meeropol said.

The New York Times

Rather than expanding government power, he said, "this document clarifies the rules by which the F.B.I. conducts its intelligence mission".

The New York Times

Rather, the rebellion is against the rules by which the all-important game of beauty is played.

The Guardian - Opinion

The challenge is to discern the rules by which the patterns are arranged and then fill in the missing one.

The New York Times

Neither is there any law establishing its existence or setting out the rules by which it is supposed to operate.

The New York Times

Elected politicians and the army will both be working to set the rules by which Egypt will be governed.

The New York Times

It takes far more motivation than that". The industry has begun experimenting, rethinking the rules by which television is disseminated.

The New York Times - Arts

So Russia was fully aware of the rules by which Turkey is playing, and they are rules which Russia understands.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There are worries about the calibre of candidates, and the rules by which they will fight the elections.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the rules by which", ensure the noun following "by which" clearly indicates what is being governed or determined. For example: "the rules by which decisions are made".

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating what is being governed. For instance, instead of "the rules by which", specify "the rules by which data is processed" to clarify the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the rules by which" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a relative clause, modifying a noun by specifying the regulations, guidelines, or principles that govern it. It is frequently used to provide clarity and context regarding how something is managed or controlled. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

31%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the rules by which" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that introduces relative clauses to specify governing principles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English to define the framework under which something operates, with a formal register common in academic, scientific, and news media contexts. While alternatives like "the regulations governing" and "the principles guiding" exist, "the rules by which" effectively conveys the structured and well-defined context it governs, though clarity in usage is crucial to avoid ambiguity. It's frequently seen in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the regulations governing

This alternative focuses on the regulatory aspect, emphasizing the control exerted by specific regulations.

the principles guiding

This alternative highlights the underlying principles that inform and direct actions or decisions.

the standards determining

This phrase underscores the role of standards in establishing criteria for evaluation or judgment.

the framework for

This alternative provides a broader perspective, suggesting an overarching structure within which something operates.

the conventions of

This option emphasizes established customs and practices that are widely accepted within a particular field or community.

the procedures for

This alternative is centered on the specific steps or actions that are required in a particular process.

the norms shaping

This option focuses on how norms influence and mold behavior or outcomes within a group or society.

the protocols dictating

This alternative highlights strict rules or procedures that must be followed precisely.

the criteria influencing

This alternative highlights that specific criteria have an effect on something, and focuses on the influence rather than the rules.

the conditions affecting

This option emphasizes the circumstances or requirements that impact a particular situation or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "the rules by which" in a sentence?

Use "the rules by which" to specify the guidelines or standards that govern a particular process, decision, or activity. For example, "The contract outlines "the rules by which" payments will be made".

What are some alternatives to "the rules by which"?

You can use alternatives such as "the regulations governing", "the principles guiding", or "the standards determining" depending on the context.

Is "the rules by which" formal or informal?

"The rules by which" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or official contexts. In informal settings, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "the rules by which" and "according to the rules of"?

"The rules by which" emphasizes the system or framework that governs something, while "according to the rules of" focuses on compliance with specific, established guidelines. The former is more descriptive, while the latter is more prescriptive.