there are the rules

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there are the rules" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used incorrectly; a more appropriate phrase would be "here are the rules" when introducing a list or set of guidelines. Example: "Before we begin the meeting, here are the rules we need to follow."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Let's call these the plausible annoyances.Then there are the rules that are more annoying because the bar at which one has to suspend disbelief is raised even higher.

The Economist

First, there are the rules.

The New York Times - Sports

Then there are the rules and rituals.

The New York Times - Books

Then, there are the rules in some states that require retailers to display both the cash and credit price on every single item.

The New York Times

"Yeah, but there are the rules and there's the spirit of the thing," Murt said, turning the nubbin of a chicken nugget between his fingers.

The New Yorker

And then, he says, there are the rules: "It's a quartier entirely protected by law — I didn't make it so; the state did — entirely protected, architecturally finished, with no space and strict rules.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But Uefa president Michel Platini said: "What is happening there is the rules have not been respected.

BBC

"There aren't any courts, instead there's the rule of the militias.

BBC

And then there were the rules.

The New Yorker

"There were the rules," Ms. La Vache said.

The New York Times

There's the rule of 9s.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase in dialogue or informal contexts, be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation. Ensure the context makes the intended meaning clear, or consider rephrasing for better understanding.

Common error

A common mistake is using "there are the rules" in formal documents or presentations. This phrase is often perceived as grammatically awkward and can detract from the overall credibility of your writing. Always substitute with more appropriate alternatives like "these are the guidelines" or "the regulations stipulate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there are the rules" functions as a declarative statement aiming to introduce or highlight the existence of specific regulations. However, Ludwig AI indicates this phrasing is often grammatically incorrect. The intended function is to make individuals aware of established guidelines, but the phrasing undermines clarity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "there are the rules" is used to point out the existence of regulations in various contexts, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI highlights this issue, recommending alternatives like "these are the rules" or "here are the rules" for improved clarity and correctness. Although the phrase appears in diverse sources, including news and scientific articles, its awkward construction makes it unsuitable for formal writing. When you want to express a similar idea, consider using alternatives such as "these are the regulations" or restructuring your sentence for better grammatical accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

these are the regulations

Emphasizes a formal set of regulations, implying a more structured and official context.

the rules stipulate that

Highlights the prescriptive nature of the rules, focusing on what they mandate.

the guidelines specify

Similar to 'the rules stipulate', but suggests a less rigid and more advisory nature.

rules and regulations exist

Focuses on the existence of both rules and more detailed regulations.

the established procedures are

Replaces 'rules' with 'procedures', emphasizing a systematic way of doing things.

governing principles include

Shifts the focus to underlying principles that guide actions and decisions.

the framework involves

Suggests a broader, more encompassing structure that includes rules as a component.

policies are in place

Highlights that formal policies have been implemented, covering various situations.

the protocols dictate

Similar to 'rules', but often used in technical or scientific contexts.

directives outline the process

Implies instructions or commands that guide how something should be done.

FAQs

Is "there are the rules" grammatically correct?

No, "there are the rules" is not considered grammatically correct in standard written English. A more appropriate phrasing would be "these are the rules" or "here are the rules". According to Ludwig AI, it's frequently used incorrectly.

What's a better way to say "there are the rules" in a formal setting?

In formal settings, use phrases like "these are the regulations" or "the rules are as follows" for improved clarity and professionalism.

Can I use "there are the rules" in everyday conversation?

While it might be understood in informal speech, using "there are the rules" can sound awkward. Consider rephrasing to "here are the rules" or simply "these are the rules" even in casual conversation.

How does "there are the rules" compare to "these are the rules" in terms of correctness?

"These are the rules" is grammatically sound and widely accepted, while "there are the rules" is generally considered incorrect. The former is a direct and clear way to present a set of rules, while the latter is structurally awkward and may confuse the listener or reader. Using "these are the rules" ensures better communication.