Rule

/ɹˈuːl/

/ˈɹuɫ/

Definition & Meaning of "rule"

Rule

measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths

an instruction that says what is or is not allowed in a given situation or while playing a game

Example

The first rule of the game is to always play fair.

He broke the rule by bringing his phone into the examination room.

The school has a strict dress code rule that all students must follow.

something regarded as a normative example

a detailed principle that clarifies what one should do in a particular situation or circumstance

(linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system

(mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems

directions that define the way a game or sport is to be conducted

any one of a systematic body of regulations defining the way of life of members of a religious order

dominance or power through legal authority

the duration of a monarch's or government's power

to rule

VERB

to control and be in charge of a country

Transitive: to rule a country

Example

The monarch ruled the kingdom with absolute authority.

The president ruled the nation during a time of economic prosperity.

The dictator ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing dissent.

to officially declare or state something as true, especially in a legal or authoritative manner

Transitive: to rule that

Example

The judge ruled that the defendant was guilty of all charges.

The committee ruled that the proposal was acceptable and would proceed.

The panel ruled that the candidate was disqualified from the election.

to be the most important or dominant

Intransitive

Example

In this industry, innovation rules above all else.

Money often rules in political decisions, overshadowing other concerns.

In times of crisis, the need for clear communication rules above all.

to make an official decision about something

Intransitive: to rule on an issue | to rule against an issue | to rule in favor of an issue

Example

The judge is expected to rule on the case next week after reviewing all the evidence.

The board of directors will convene tomorrow to rule on the proposed merger.

The committee ruled in favor of the new zoning regulations after a series of public hearings.

to control or restrain something or someone, maintaining order or preventing excess

Transitive: to rule one's emotions

Example

He had to rule his impatience, waiting for the meeting to start.

They had to rule their excitement as they awaited the announcement.

She ruled her emotions, staying calm during the stressful situation.

to draw straight, parallel lines across a surface, such as paper

Transitive: to rule paper

Example

She ruled the paper with a pencil to create evenly spaced lines for her notes.

He carefully ruled the edges of the paper to ensure all lines were perfectly straight.

He ruled the page with a ruler to create sections for his outline.

(of a planet) to have a dominant or guiding influence over a zodiac sign, astrological house, or other celestial aspect

Transitive: to rule a zodiac sign or astrological house

Example

Mars rules Aries, giving those born under this sign a bold and energetic personality.

Mars is said to rule the first house of the zodiac, shaping the way we present ourselves to the world.

Mercury rules Gemini, affecting communication and quick thinking.

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Definition & Meaning of "rule"

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