LAW Meaning and
Definition
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Law is a system of rules and guidelines that governs behavior and interactions within a specific society or community. It is established and enforced by a governing authority and is applicable to all individuals and organizations within its jurisdiction. The primary purpose of law is to maintain social order, promote justice, protect individual rights, and provide a framework for resolving disputes.
The body of law is comprised of various types, including constitutional law, statutory law, administrative law, and common law. Constitutional law refers to the fundamental principles and rights outlined in a country's constitution, while statutory law consists of laws enacted by legislative bodies. Administrative law governs the activities of government agencies and institutions, and common law, derived from judicial decisions, is a system of legal precedents that form the basis for resolving new cases.
Countries have their legal systems, which may differ in content and application. Civil law systems largely rely on codified statutes to resolve legal disputes, while common law systems emphasize court decisions and legal precedents. International law governs relations between nation-states and helps maintain global order. Additionally, legal systems also encompass particular areas such as criminal law, labor law, family law, and contract law, among others.
The enforcement of law involves various mechanisms such as police forces, courts, and correctional institutions. Violations of the law often result in legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or other penalties. However, laws can also be amended or repealed if they are deemed unfair, ineffective, or no longer relevant to changing societal values and needs.
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A rule of action imposed by some authority, or by the supreme power of a state; a statute; a rule of direction; a settled principle; a rule or axiom of science.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for LAW *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for LAW
Etymology of LAW
The word "law" has its origins in Old English, specifically from the word "lagu" or "loge", which can be traced back to Germanic and Scandinavian languages. In Old Norse, the word "lag" meant "something laid down or fixed", while in Old High German, it became "liug", meaning "custom" or "statute". Ultimately, these origins derive from the Proto-Germanic word "lagam", meaning "layer" or "something laid". The word "law" is also related to the Latin word "lex", which has a similar meaning.
Idioms with the word LAW
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Sod's Law
"Sod's Law" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the idea that if something can go wrong, it will. It suggests that unfortunate or inconvenient circumstances are more likely to happen at the least opportune or expected moments. It is similar to the concept of Murphy's Law.
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Murphy's law
Murphy's law is an adage or principle that states, "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." It is a humorous and somewhat fatalistic observation about the tendency of things to go awry or unexpected in life.
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read law
The idiom "read law" refers to the act of studying or practicing law, often in a self-taught manner, without attending a law school or receiving a formal legal education. It typically implies someone who has learned about the law through personal study, apprenticeship, or practical experience rather than through traditional educational institutions.
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the Law
The idiom "the Law" typically refers to a system of rules and regulations established by a governing authority to maintain order, resolve disputes, and protect the rights and interests of individuals within a society. It encompasses various legal principles, statutes, and judicial decisions that individuals are obligated to follow.
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the long arm of the law
The idiom "the long arm of the law" refers to the far-reaching power and authority of law enforcement or legal systems. It implies that no matter how far criminals may try to escape or how hidden their actions may seem, the law will eventually catch up with them.
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Necessity knows no law
The idiom "Necessity knows no law" means that in urgent or desperate situations, people will do whatever is necessary to achieve their goal, regardless of the rules or laws that normally apply. It implies that when faced with extreme necessity, the constraints of lawful behavior or regulations are disregarded.
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common law
Common law refers to a system of law that is based on court decisions and previous judicial rulings, rather than on written laws or statutes. It is a legal tradition inherited from English law and is characterized by the principle of precedent, where past cases with similar facts and issues guide the interpretation and adjudication of current cases. Common law develops over time through the accumulation of judicial decisions and is typically applied in jurisdictions that rely on case law, rather than solely relying on legislative enactments.
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be a law unto yourself
The idiom "be a law unto yourself" means to act or behave independently, disregarding the rules or opinions of others. It implies that someone is self-reliant and does not feel bound by external authority or societal norms. It suggests a tendency to make decisions and choices based solely on one's own beliefs and principles.
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the law is an ass
The idiom "the law is an ass" is used to express the sentiment that the legal system can be flawed or unjust in certain cases. It implies that the law sometimes fails to deliver fair and reasonable outcomes due to its rigid and inflexible nature, highlighting the shortcomings or absurdities within legal principles or decisions.
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possession is nine points/tenths/parts of the law
The idiom "possession is nine points/tenths/parts of the law" refers to the concept that the person in physical possession of something has a stronger legal claim to it than someone who simply claims ownership. In other words, having control or possession of an object is a significant factor in determining legal ownership or entitlement.
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bend the law/rules
The idiom "bend the law/rules" means to break or violate laws or rules, but in a subtle or flexible manner that allows for some level of manipulation or non-compliance without outright disregarding them. It suggests finding loopholes or exploiting technicalities to achieve one's desired outcome while appearing to comply with the law/rules.
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take someone to law
The expression "take someone to law" means to pursue a legal action or to bring someone to court in order to settle a dispute or seek justice. It refers to the act of engaging in a legal process to address a conflict or obtain a resolution through the legal system.
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possession is nine points of the law
The idiom "possession is nine points of the law" means that the person who physically possesses something is at an advantage in legal disputes over who owns or has the rights to it. In general, possession is often seen as a strong argument in claiming ownership, although it may not guarantee legal ownership in all cases.
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take the law into (one's) own hands
The idiom "take the law into (one's) own hands" means to independently and often unlawfully punish or seek justice for a perceived wrongdoing, without involving the legal or proper authorities. It implies that an individual is bypassing the established legal system and assuming the role of judge, jury, and executioner.
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the spirit of the law
The idiom "the spirit of the law" refers to the basic principles and intentions behind a law or legal provision, rather than focusing solely on the literal interpretation or exact wording. It emphasizes the underlying purpose or objectives that lawmakers intended to achieve through a particular law, rather than adhering strictly to its explicit wording. The spirit of the law takes into account the broader context and aims to uphold the moral or ethical intentions behind legislation.
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take the law into one's hands
The idiom "take the law into one's hands" means to take action or seek revenge without proper legal authority or due process. It refers to individuals determining and enforcing justice by their own means, typically bypassing legal institutions or acting outside the boundaries of established laws.
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take the law into your own hands
The idiom "take the law into your own hands" refers to the act of seeking personal justice or taking action outside of the boundaries of legal authority or due process. It implies acting without authorization or without relying on the established legal system, often driven by a sense of frustration, impatience, or a desire for immediate resolution. This idiom suggests an individual bypassing the judicial system to resolve a perceived wrongdoing, which can sometimes lead to vigilantism or unlawful behavior.
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Parkinson's law
Parkinson's law is an adage that states, "Work expands to fill the time available for its completion." It suggests that tasks or projects will often take longer to complete if there is no set deadline or time limit. This concept highlights the tendency for work to expand beyond what is necessary or efficient if there is no external constraint on the timeline. It emphasizes the importance of setting clear deadlines and managing time effectively to prevent unnecessary delays or inefficiency.
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a law unto yourself
The idiom "a law unto yourself" refers to someone who does not follow or adhere to the rules or conventions set by others. It describes an individual who acts independently, disregarding established norms, regulations, or expectations. They often make decisions based on their own beliefs or personal preferences, rather than conforming to the societal or organizational standards.
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a law unto (oneself)
The idiom "a law unto oneself" means someone who does not conform to rules or authority and acts independently, making their own decisions and following their own principles without regard for others or outside influence. They do not feel bound by societal expectations or norms, often favoring personal autonomy and freedom.
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above the law
The idiom "above the law" refers to someone or something that acts in a way that is beyond or exempt from the reach of the law or rules that govern others. It signifies a sense of privilege or special treatment that allows a person or entity to operate without consequences or accountability.
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be a law unto (oneself)
The idiom "be a law unto oneself" refers to a person who acts independently or does not conform to established rules or regulations. It suggests that the individual sets their own standards and follows their own principles, often disregarding societal norms or expectations. This phrase can also imply autonomy and self-reliance, indicating a person who prefers to rely on their own judgment rather than external guidance or authority.
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on the wrong side of the law
The idiom "on the wrong side of the law" refers to someone who is engaged in illegal activities or behaving illegally, often in violation of the established rules, regulations, or laws of a society or governing body. It implies that the person is involved in unlawful actions and may face legal consequences or be considered a criminal.
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have the law on somebody
The idiom "have the law on somebody" means to take legal action against someone, typically with the intention of seeking justice or holding them accountable for their actions. It implies that the person is being pursued legally and that they will be subject to the consequences imposed by the legal system.
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one law for the rich and another for the poor
The idiom "one law for the rich and another for the poor" refers to a situation where the wealthy and privileged class receive preferential treatment and are subject to different standards or consequences under the law compared to the less privileged or lower socioeconomic groups. It highlights inequality or perceived unfairness in the legal system's treatment of different social classes.
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take (someone or something) to law
The idiom "take (someone or something) to law" means to pursue a legal course of action against someone or something. It refers to seeking justice through legal means, usually by filing a lawsuit or taking the matter to court.
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Johnny Law
The idiom "Johnny Law" is a colloquial term that is used to refer to the police or law enforcement officers. It signifies the authorities or those who enforce the law.
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be a law unto
To be a law unto oneself means to disregard or act independently of established rules, norms, or authority. It suggests that someone behaves according to their own principles or desires, without considering or being influenced by others. This idiom implies a sense of self-reliance, autonomy, and possibly a disregard for social conventions.
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the rule of law
The rule of law is a fundamental principle that establishes that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable to a set of laws, rather than the arbitrary decisions of authorities or the whims of others. It is the concept that everyone, regardless of their position or power, must be governed and abide by the same laws, ensuring fairness, order, and justice in society.
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vote sth into law
The idiom "vote something into law" refers to the process by which a legislative body, such as a parliament or a congress, formally passes a proposed law, making it legally binding. It involves conducting a vote among the members, who determine whether the proposed legislation should be adopted and enforced as law.
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word is law
The idiom "word is law" means that someone's statement or promise is considered absolute and binding, having the same weight and authority as established laws. It implies that the person's word or declaration holds significant power and influence, and must be followed or accepted without question.
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John Law
The idiom "John Law" typically refers to a person who is an excessive spender, often associated with someone who is reckless with their finances or prone to overspending. It is derived from the name of John Law, a Scottish economist and financier from the 18th century who is infamous for his involvement in a financial bubble and his unsuccessful attempt to establish a national bank in France.
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the law is a ass
The idiom "the law is a ass" is typically a satirical statement that implies a criticism or dissatisfaction with the legal system. It suggests that the law can be unreasonable, inefficient, or an obstruction to justice. It originated from Charles Dickens' novel "Oliver Twist" in which a character states, "If the law supposes that, the law is a ass—a idiot." This idiom expresses the opinion that the legal system can sometimes be flawed, unfair, or inadequate.
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Self-preservation is the first law of nature
The idiom "Self-preservation is the first law of nature" means that every living creature has an innate instinct to prioritize their own survival and well-being above all else. It implies that individuals will naturally act in ways that safeguard themselves from harm or danger before considering the needs or interests of others.
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the law of the Medes and Persians
"The law of the Medes and Persians" is an idiom that refers to an unchanging or inflexible rule or decree that cannot be altered or disregarded, similar to an unbreakable law. The phrase originates from an ancient historical reference to the laws and customs of the ancient Medes and Persians, who were known for their strict adherence to stringent rules and their reluctance to modify or revoke any decrees.
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the law of averages
The idiom "the law of averages" refers to the principle that over a long period, the probable outcome of a situation will be determined by the average of all possible outcomes. It suggests that in the long run, things tend to even out or balance out statistically.
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lemon law
The idiom "lemon law" refers to a legal provision that protects consumers who purchase defective or faulty products, particularly automobiles. It provides recourse for consumers to receive a refund, replacement, or repairs for their purchased product if it is determined to be defective or consistently malfunctioning despite multiple repair attempts.
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in the eyes of the law
The idiom "in the eyes of the law" means that something is considered or evaluated from a legal standpoint or according to legal standards and regulations. It refers to the perspective or viewpoint of the legal system and how it perceives or judges a particular action, behavior, or situation.
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your, his, etc. word is law
The idiom "your word is law" or "his word is law" implies that the person's statement or decision is final and must be obeyed or followed without question. It suggests that their words hold significant authority and should be regarded as the ultimate truth or a binding directive for others.
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lay down the law (to someone) (about something)
The idiom "lay down the law (to someone) (about something)" means to assert one's authority or establish rules in a strict and authoritative manner, typically in a forceful or uncompromising manner. It refers to the act of issuing clear instructions or setting firm boundaries to someone regarding a particular matter.
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lay down the law (to sm) (about sth)
The idiom "lay down the law (to someone) (about something)" means to give strict instructions, rules, or orders to someone in an authoritative or forceful manner. It implies asserting one's authority and making sure that the person understands and complies with the specified rules or guidelines.
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law and order
The idiom "law and order" refers to the state or condition where rules and regulations are enforced and respected, resulting in a peaceful and controlled society. It emphasizes the need for the establishment and maintenance of legal structures and a system of authority that ensures justice, safety, and social stability within a community or nation.
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Selfpreservation is the first law of nature
The idiom "Self-preservation is the first law of nature" means that it is instinctive and natural for individuals to prioritize their own survival and well-being over anything else. It implies that human beings or animals will naturally act in ways that ensure their own safety and protection, sometimes even at the expense of others.
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unwritten law
The idiom "unwritten law" refers to an implicit code of conduct or rules that are widely understood within a specific group or society, but are not officially documented or enforced by written laws or regulations. It typically represents a set of norms, customs, or expectations that guide behavior and are considered morally or socially binding.
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letter of the law
The idiom "letter of the law" refers to strictly adhering to the literal interpretation or wording of a law or rule, without considering its spirit or intended meaning. It implies following the exact words of a law, regulation, or contract, rather than interpreting or applying it in a more flexible or contextual manner. In essence, it emphasizes a strict and literal level of compliance.
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there's no law against (something)
The idiom "there's no law against (something)" means that an action or behavior is not prohibited by any established rules, laws, or regulations. It implies that although something may be unconventional, unusual, or morally ambiguous, it is not explicitly forbidden or illegal.
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a law unto
The idiom "a law unto" means someone who behaves in a way that disregards the rules or conventions that regulate the actions or behavior of others. It refers to a person who acts independently, without considering the opinions or expectations of others, and relies solely on their own judgment or authority.
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Adequate Remedy at Law
The idiom "Adequate Remedy at Law" refers to a legal term that describes a solution or relief that is available to a party through the court system. It implies that the existing legal remedies and procedures are sufficient to resolve a dispute or provide compensation to the injured party. In other words, it suggests that there is no need for additional remedies or measures beyond what the law already offers.
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break a law
The idiom "break a law" means to violate or disobey a rule or regulation that has been established by a governing authority, resulting in the commission of an illegal act.
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against the law
The idiom "against the law" refers to something that is prohibited or forbidden by the law of a particular jurisdiction or government. It implies that an action or behavior violates the existing legal framework and is subject to punishment or legal consequences.
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the letter of the law
The idiom "the letter of the law" refers to the strict interpretation or application of the law based on its exact wording, ignoring any spirit, intent, or broader context behind it. It emphasizes a narrow and literal interpretation of legal rules and regulations, focusing solely on what the law explicitly states instead of considering its underlying principles or intended purpose.
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Possession is ninetenths of the law.
The idiom "Possession is nine-tenths of the law" means that if you physically have something in your possession, it is often easier to maintain your ownership or claim over it, rather than trying to dispute or regain it through legal means. In other words, having physical control over something can provide a strong advantage in asserting ownership or control.
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(one's) word is law
The idiom "(one's) word is law" means that someone's promise or statement is considered to be absolute and binding without question or deviation. It emphasizes that the person's word is considered to be the final and authoritative decision in a matter, and that their agreements or assertions should be accepted and respected.
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be a law unto (one)self
The idiom "be a law unto oneself" means to act or behave according to one's own rules or principles without considering or following the established norms or guidelines of society. It implies being independent, self-governing, and not easily influenced by external forces.
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There ought to be a law!
The idiom "There ought to be a law!" is an expression used to convey the sentiment or belief that a certain behavior or situation is so unacceptable, unfair, or problematic, that there should be a specific law enacted to address and regulate it. It suggests the need for legal intervention or regulation to rectify the issue.
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break (a/the) law
The idiom "break (a/the) law" refers to the act of violating or contravening a law or regulation. It involves engaging in activities that are prohibited by the legal system or government authorities.
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there's one law for the rich and another for the poor
The idiom "there's one law for the rich and another for the poor" refers to the belief or perception that individuals from different economic backgrounds are treated unequally or face different consequences under the legal system. It implies that wealthier individuals may receive more lenient treatment or have more legal privileges compared to those who are less affluent. This idiom highlights the perceived disparity between social classes in terms of the administration of justice.
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long arm of the law
The idiom "long arm of the law" refers to the far-reaching power and influence of the legal system or law enforcement agencies. It implies that the law and those enforcing it have a broad reach and extensive authority to punish or bring justice to individuals who have broken the law, even if they try to hide or escape.
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a law unto himself, herself, etc.
The idiom "a law unto himself, herself, etc." refers to someone who frequently acts independently, disregarding rules, norms, or the influence of others. This person typically makes their own decisions and follows their own principles instead of conforming to established standards or authority figures. They may have their own set of rules or beliefs that guide their behavior, often setting them apart from the majority or society at large.
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possession is nine-tenths of the law
The idiom "possession is nine-tenths of the law" means that ownership or physical control of something often carries more weight or influence than legal claims or rights. It implies that the person who currently has physical possession of an item has a strong advantage in any dispute or legal proceedings related to its ownership.
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go to law
The idiom "go to law" means to initiate legal action or to resort to legal measures in order to resolve a dispute or settle a matter. It refers to engaging in a legal process, such as filing a lawsuit or seeking arbitration, to address an issue.
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lay down the law
The idiom "lay down the law" means to establish or assert rules or regulations in a strict and authoritative manner. It refers to the act of imposing one's authority or making it clear what is expected, often with a sense of sternness or firmness.
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the law of diminishing returns
The idiom "the law of diminishing returns" refers to a concept in economics that states that after a certain point of increasing input or effort, the output or outcome obtained will start to decline or diminish. In other words, the continued allocation of resources or effort to a specific activity will result in decreasing marginal gains or benefits. This principle suggests that there is an optimal level or point where further investment may not yield proportionate or desirable results.
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the law of the jungle
The idiom "the law of the jungle" refers to a situation or set of rules where only the strongest survive and dominate others, reminiscent of the harsh and competitive nature of the animal kingdom. It signifies a lack of order, where power and aggression dictate interactions and outcomes.
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law unto
The idiom "law unto" refers to a person or group of people who behave in a way that is independent and not bound by others' rules or regulations. They have their own set of standards or principles to guide their actions, often disregarding or exempting themselves from established laws or norms.
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on the right/wrong side of the law
The idiom "on the right/wrong side of the law" refers to whether someone's actions are legal or illegal, abiding by or breaking the law. When someone is on the right side of the law, they are acting within the boundaries set by law and are considered lawful. Conversely, being on the wrong side of the law means that the person is engaging in activities that violate laws and are considered unlawful.
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law of the jungle
The idiom "law of the jungle" refers to the principle of survival or conduct based on self-interest and the dominance of the strongest, commonly associated with challenging or primitive environments where there are no set rules or standards.
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John(ny) Law
The idiom "John(ny) Law" typically refers to the police or law enforcement agents. It is a colloquial term used to describe the authorities or the police force in general. It can sometimes imply a negative or distrustful view of law enforcement.
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criminal law
"Criminal law" refers to the set of rules and regulations established by a government or jurisdiction to maintain social order and address behavior that is considered harmful or disruptive to society. It encompasses the body of laws and statutes that define various criminal offenses, establish penalties or punishments for breaking those laws, and outline the procedures and practices for investigations, arrests, trials, and sentencing related to criminal offenses.
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vote into law
The idiom "vote into law" refers to the process by which a legislative body or governing body formally approves and passes a proposed law or legislation, thereby making it legally binding and enforceable. It typically involves a majority or specified number of votes in favor of the proposed law, signifying its acceptance and adoption as part of the legal system.
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someone's word is law
The idiom "someone's word is law" means that a person's statement or declaration is to be completely obeyed and accepted without question or hesitation, as if they have the authority to make and enforce laws.
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law of averages
The law of averages is an idiom that refers to the belief that a particular event or phenomenon is likely to occur or balance out in the long run if it has not already happened or balanced out in the short term. It suggests that statistically, over time, things tend to even out or occur with a certain regularity or frequency.
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get on the wrong side of the law
The idiom "get on the wrong side of the law" means to behave or act illegally or in a way that goes against the established rules or laws of society. It refers to engaging in activities that can lead to legal consequences or trouble with law enforcement authorities.
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there's no law against
The idiom "there's no law against" is used to convey that an action or behavior is not explicitly prohibited by any rules, regulations, or laws. It suggests that if there is no specific law against something, then it is permitted or allowed.
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law unto oneself
The idiom "law unto oneself" refers to a person who acts independently, without regard for rules, regulations, or the opinions of others. It describes someone who sets their own standards and imposes their own authority or rules, often disregarding societal norms or expectations.
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Ignorance (of the law) is no excuse (for breaking it).
The idiom "Ignorance (of the law) is no excuse (for breaking it)" means that not knowing or being unaware of a law does not exempt a person from being held accountable or facing consequences for violating it. In legal contexts, this phrase implies that individuals are expected to be aware of and abide by the laws of their jurisdiction, regardless of their knowledge or understanding of them.
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take the law into own hands
The idiom "take the law into one's own hands" means to act as judge, jury, and sometimes executioner or vigilante, bypassing the legal system and resorting to personal revenge or justice. It refers to individuals who choose to mete out punishment or enact justice outside of the established legal framework.
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bend the law
The idiom "bend the law" refers to the act of disregarding or partially breaking a rule or law in order to achieve a desired outcome or to gain an advantage. It implies that someone is attempting to manipulate or interpret the law in a way that suits their own agenda or objective, often with a degree of dishonesty or unethical behavior.
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have the law on (someone)
The idiom "have the law on (someone)" means to have legal authority or evidence against someone that can be used to pursue legal actions or accusations against them. It suggests that the person is in violation of the law and that legal action can be taken to hold them accountable.
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there's no law against it
The idiom "there's no law against it" means that although something may be unconventional, unusual, or morally questionable, it is not explicitly prohibited or forbidden by any rules or regulations. It suggests that while an action may not be widely accepted or approved of, it is not illegal.
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long arm of the law, the
The long arm of the law is a metaphorical term used to describe the far-reaching power and authority of law enforcement and the legal system. It refers to the idea that no matter how far someone may try to evade justice, the law will eventually catch up with them.
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in the eyes of the law, world, etc.
Similar spelling words for LAW
- lad,
- low,
- lap,
- paw,
- lab,
- lah,
- flaw,
- L,
- la,
- layia,
- lay,
- LAU,
- caw,
- lahu,
- lag,
- la.,
- saw,
- Lai,
- raw,
- LAUE,
- lawn,
- jaw,
- lao,
- lahey,
- claw.
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