RULE Meaning and
Definition
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Rule can be defined as a governing principle or guideline that directs the conduct or behavior of individuals or groups. It is a prescribed set of instructions or regulations that establish order, establish standards, and provide a framework for decision-making within a specific context. Rules can exist in various domains, including legal systems, social interactions, organizational structures, and games.
In legal contexts, rules are laws or legislations that are enforced by governing bodies to regulate behavior and maintain societal order. These regulations outline the rights, duties, and obligations of individuals, as well as the penalties or consequences for violations.
In social interactions, rules serve as commonly accepted norms, values, or customs that dictate appropriate behavior within a specific culture or group setting. They facilitate smooth and harmonious interactions by guiding individuals on what is considered acceptable or unacceptable conduct in a given context.
Within organizations, rules are established to ensure efficient and effective operations, maintain discipline, and achieve desired outcomes. These guidelines help employees understand their responsibilities, set standards of performance, and maintain a unified vision and purpose.
In games and sports, rules are essential to create a fair and competitive environment. They define the objectives, dictate how players must act or move, and specify the limits and boundaries within which the game operates.
In summary, rules are guiding principles or regulations that provide structure, order, and direction in various aspects of human life, ensuring fairness, compliance, and a harmonious existence within a given system or context.
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• An instrument by which straight lines are drawn, or short lengths measured; something established for guidance and direction; government; supreme command; control; a prescribed mode of operation by which certain results may be obtained; in gram., a statement by which some established order in the construction of words is expressed.
• To govern; to conduct; to direct; to determine, as a court of justice; to decide; to lay down and settle; to exercise supreme authority.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for RULE *
* 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 RULE
Etymology of RULE
The word "rule" originated from the Old French word "règle" in the 13th century, which was derived from the Latin word "regula". In Latin, "regula" meant a straight piece of wood or metal that was used for measuring or drawing straight lines. It is believed that "regula" was derived from the Proto-Indo-European root word "reg-", which meant "to straighten" or "to direct". Over time, the meaning of "rule" expanded to refer to a guiding principle or a governing law, in addition to its original sense of a ruler or measuring instrument.
Idioms with the word RULE
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the rule
The idiom "the rule" generally refers to a set of guidelines or principles that govern a particular situation or aspect of life. It can also imply a commonly accepted standard or norm that people are expected to follow.
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rule in favor of
The idiom "rule in favor of" refers to the decision made by a judge or jury in a legal case where they choose to support or endorse a particular side or party involved in the dispute. It means that the judge or jury has concluded that the evidence and arguments presented by one side are stronger or more compelling, leading to a judgment in their favor.
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let heart rule head
The idiom "let heart rule head" means to make decisions or take actions based on emotions and desires rather than rational thinking or logic. It suggests prioritizing emotions and following one's heart rather than using logical reasoning or careful consideration.
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the exception that proves the rule
The idiom "the exception that proves the rule" means that the presence of an exception implies the existence of a general rule. In other words, when an exception to a rule is acknowledged, it validates the existence of the rule in all other cases. The phrase emphasizes that the exception serves as evidence or confirmation of the rule's common applicability, rather than invalidating it.
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let (one's) heart rule (one's) head
The idiom "let (one's) heart rule (one's) head" means to make decisions or act based on emotion or passion rather than reason or logic. It implies that one is allowing their feelings to guide their actions, often disregarding rational thinking or consequences.
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rule in favor of sm or sth
The idiom "rule in favor of someone or something" means to make a decision or judgment in support or agreement to the benefit of that person or thing. It typically refers to a legal or official ruling in a court case, where a judge or jury decides in favor of a particular party or outcome. This idiomatic expression implies that the decision or judgment is made in accordance with the best interests or arguments presented by someone or something.
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work to rule
The idiom "work to rule" refers to a situation where employees strictly follow the rules and procedures of their job, often as a form of protest or as a way to express dissatisfaction. Instead of going above and beyond or exerting extra effort, they only perform the tasks that are explicitly required by their job description, adhering strictly to contractual obligations without any flexibility or discretionary effort.
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rule sm or sth out
The idiom "rule sm or sth out" means to eliminate or exclude a possibility, option, or potential outcome from consideration or to decide that something is not possible or cannot happen.
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rule out sth
The idiom "rule out something" means to eliminate or exclude something as a possibility or option. It is often used to indicate the act of deciding that something is not a valid or likely choice or to dismiss something as irrelevant or impossible.
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rule (sb) with a rod of iron
The idiom "rule (sb) with a rod of iron" means to govern or control someone or a situation with absolute authority and strictness, often using force or harsh measures. It suggests a dictatorial or oppressive style of leadership.
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the golden rule
The golden rule is a moral principle or maxim that states, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." It is a guiding principle that promotes empathy, fairness, and treating others with kindness and respect.
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divide and rule (or conquer)
The idiom "divide and rule (or conquer)" refers to the strategy of maintaining power by creating division and discord among the people being ruled, in order to weaken opposition and maintain control. It involves intentionally sowing seeds of conflict or fostering disagreements among a group or population, manipulating them to prevent unified opposition or resistance.
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there is an exception to every rule
The idiom "there is an exception to every rule" means that in any established or general rule or principle, there will always be a specific situation or circumstance where the rule does not apply.
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be the exception that proves the rule
The idiom "be the exception that proves the rule" is used to describe a situation or person that does not conform to a general rule or pattern, but rather confirms its existence. It suggests that the existence of an exception only serves to reinforce the validity or accuracy of the rule.
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rule OK
The idiom "rule OK" typically means that someone or something is in a position of authority or dominance, often accompanied by a sense of superiority or invincibility. It implies that the person or entity is in complete control and their decisions or actions should not be challenged. "Rule OK" can also express the notion that rules or regulations are paramount and should be followed without question.
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rule against sm or sth
The idiom "rule against (someone or something)" refers to a decision made by a person or authority that prohibits, rejects, or declares something invalid or not allowed. It usually pertains to a judgment or ruling that goes against a specific person, action, or thing, often indicating that it is not permitted or permissible. This idiom is commonly used in legal contexts or when discussing regulations and policies.
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ground rule
The idiom "ground rule" refers to a basic principle or guideline that is established at the beginning of a certain activity, situation, or endeavor to determine how it will be conducted and the boundaries that must be respected. It is a fundamental rule that helps set the expectations and conditions for everyone involved.
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rule over sm or sth
The phrase "rule over someone or something" means to have complete power, authority, or control over a person, group, or situation. It typically suggests being in a position of leadership or dominance.
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rule someone or something with a rod of iron
The idiom "rule someone or something with a rod of iron" means to exercise strict and uncompromising control over someone or something. It implies a domineering or authoritarian approach to governing, leading, or managing, without allowing any deviation or questioning.
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The exception proves the rule.
The idiom "The exception proves the rule" means that the existence of an exception to a general rule implies that the rule itself is generally true. In other words, the presence of an exception highlights or confirms the existence of a general pattern or rule.
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rule (somebody/something) with a rod of iron
The idiom "rule (somebody/something) with a rod of iron" means to exercise strict control or authority over someone or something, typically employing harsh or oppressive measures. It implies an authoritarian and authoritarian regime or style of leadership.
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rule sth with an iron hand/fist
The idiom "rule something with an iron hand/fist" means to govern or control something, typically an organization or a group of people, with strict discipline and authority, often using force or harsh measures. It suggests a domineering, authoritarian style of leadership that allows no dissent or opposition. The use of "iron hand/fist" implies a rigid and unyielding approach in managing and enforcing rules.
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as a rule
The idiom "as a rule" means typically, usually, or generally. It refers to something that commonly happens or is true.
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rule on sth
The idiom "rule on sth" means to make a decision or give a judgment about a particular matter or issue, typically in a legal context. It refers to the act of issuing a ruling, opinion, or verdict regarding a specific topic, often based on evidence, facts, and applicable laws or regulations.
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rule with an iron fist
The idiom "rule with an iron fist" means to exercise strict and harsh control or authority over others. It implies a leadership style characterized by oppressive and uncompromising tactics.
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make it a rule
The idiom "make it a rule" means to establish a guideline or principle that must be followed consistently. It implies setting a standard or expectation for specific behavior or action in a given situation.
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divide and conquer/rule
The idiom "divide and conquer/rule" refers to a strategy used to gain control or influence over a group by causing division or discord among its members. It involves separating individuals or factions within a larger entity in order to weaken their collective power and ensure easier domination.
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rule the roost
The idiom "rule the roost" means to be in a position of authority or control, to have power over others, or to be the dominant or influential figure in a particular setting or situation. It reflects the notion of being the leader or decision-maker in a group or household, similar to a rooster asserting dominance within a chicken coop, hence "ruling the roost."
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rule against
The idiom "rule against" typically means to make a decision or judgment in opposition to something, to determine that something is not allowed or permissible, or to establish a regulation or principle preventing or prohibiting an action. It usually implies the act of disallowing, rejecting, or forbidding.
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bright-line rule
The idiom "bright-line rule" refers to a clearly defined rule or standard that leaves no room for interpretation or ambiguity. It is a specific and objective guideline that allows for easy determination or decision-making without any gray areas.
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a rule of thumb
The idiom "a rule of thumb" refers to a practical, general guideline or approximate principle that is based on experience rather than being an exact or scientific formula. It conveys the idea of using a practical and rough approach to make decisions or solve problems.
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let your heart rule your head
The idiom "let your heart rule your head" means to make decisions or act based on emotions, impulses, or passion rather than logic or rationale. It urges someone to prioritize their emotions or desires over practicality or reason.
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divide and rule
The idiom "divide and rule" refers to a strategy or tactic used by a person or group in order to maintain control or authority by causing division or discord among others. It involves intentionally creating conflicts or differences among a group of people to weaken their collective strength or unity, making it easier for the person or group implementing the strategy to manipulate or control them.
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rule out
The idiom "rule out" means to eliminate or dismiss something as a possibility or option. It refers to excluding or determining that something is not valid or relevant.
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golden rule
The idiom "golden rule" refers to a principle or ethical guideline that suggests treating others the way you would like to be treated. It encourages individuals to have empathy and consideration for others, promoting mutual respect and kindness in interpersonal interactions.
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rule with a rod of iron
The idiom "rule with a rod of iron" means to exercise strict or authoritarian control or leadership over a person, group, or situation. It implies using rigorous discipline, often with little room for flexibility or leniency.
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the rule of law
The idiom "the rule of law" refers to the principle that every individual, including government officials, is subject to and accountable to the law. It means that no one is above the law, and the law should be applied equally and fairly to all individuals, regardless of their social, economic, or political status. This principle ensures that a society functions based on justice, stability, and respect for human rights, preventing arbitrary rule and promoting a system where laws are enacted, enforced, and adjudicated in a uniform and impartial manner.
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divide and conquer or rule
The idiom "divide and conquer" or "divide and rule" means a strategy or tactic where a group or individual gains and maintains power by creating divisions and conflicts among their opponents or subjects. By splitting them up and turning them against each other, the power-holder can more easily control and manipulate them.
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the three strikes rule
The idiom "the three strikes rule" refers to a principle or policy that imposes severe consequences or penalties after a person has committed three offenses or failures. It is often associated with a system that institutes progressively harsher punishment for repeat offenders.
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rule of thumb
The idiom "rule of thumb" refers to a general principle or guideline that is based on experience or practical knowledge, rather than being a strict or precise rule. It suggests a practical and approximate way of doing or measuring something, often used when there is no specific or exact rule available.
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as a (general) rule
The idiom "as a (general) rule" means that something is commonly true or generally applicable, but there may be exceptions. It refers to a principle or guideline that is typically followed, but allows for flexibility or variance depending on the specific circumstances.
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rule with a rod of iron/with an iron hand
The idiom "rule with a rod of iron" or "rule with an iron hand" refers to someone in a position of power who exercises strict control, discipline, and authority. It implies a leadership style characterized by a firm and unwavering grip over a situation or group of people, often with little or no tolerance for dissent or opposition.
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rule with a velvet glove
The idiom "rule with a velvet glove" means to govern or exercise authority in a gentle, merciful, or diplomatic manner while maintaining a firm and effective control. It suggests the use of tact, subtlety, and compassion rather than harsh or authoritarian methods of leadership.
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rule/throw something out of court
To reject or disregard something as unacceptable or irrelevant, especially in a legal context.
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exception proves the rule, the
The phrase "exception proves the rule" means that an exception to a rule or generalization serves to confirm the validity of the rule or generalization, rather than disprove it. This idiom suggests that an exception helps to highlight the usual or typical behavior of a situation or pattern.
Similar spelling words for RULE
Conjugate verb Rule
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have ruled
you
would have ruled
he/she/it
would have ruled
we
would have ruled
they
would have ruled
I
would have rule
you
would have rule
he/she/it
would have rule
we
would have rule
they
would have rule
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been ruling
you
would have been ruling
he/she/it
would have been ruling
we
would have been ruling
they
would have been ruling
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would rule
you
would rule
he/she/it
would rule
we
would rule
they
would rule
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be ruling
you
would be ruling
he/she/it
would be ruling
we
would be ruling
they
would be ruling
FUTURE
I
will rule
you
will rule
he/she/it
will rule
we
will rule
they
will rule
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be ruling
you
will be ruling
he/she/it
will be ruling
we
will be ruling
they
will be ruling
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have ruled
you
will have ruled
he/she/it
will have ruled
we
will have ruled
they
will have ruled
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been ruling
you
will have been ruling
he/she/it
will have been ruling
we
will have been ruling
they
will have been ruling
IMPERATIVE
you
rule
we
let´s rule
to rule
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was ruling
you
were ruling
he/she/it
was ruling
we
were ruling
they
were ruling
PAST PARTICIPLE
ruled
PAST PERFECT
I
had ruled
you
had ruled
he/she/it
had ruled
we
had ruled
they
had ruled
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been ruling
you
had been ruling
he/she/it
had been ruling
we
had been ruling
they
had been ruling
PRESENT
I
rule
you
rule
he/she/it
rules
we
rule
they
rule
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am ruling
you
are ruling
he/she/it
is ruling
we
are ruling
they
are ruling
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
ruling
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have ruled
you
have ruled
he/she/it
has ruled
we
have ruled
they
have ruled
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been ruling
you
have been ruling
he/she/it
has been ruling
we
have been ruling
they
have been ruling
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
rule
SIMPLE PAST
I
ruled
you
ruled
he/she/it
ruled
we
ruled
they
ruled
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