Regulate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to enforcing rules, laws, or standards to ensure proper operation.

• The government needs to regulate the financial industry to prevent fraud.
• They regulate the temperature in the laboratory to maintain consistent results.

Implying having power over something or someone, often with the ability to direct or influence outcomes.

• She was determined to control her emotions during the stressful meeting.
• The company needs to control its spending to remain profitable.

Mostly used in the context of administering authority, especially within a political or organizational structure.

• The mayor will govern the city according to new policies.
• The board of directors govern the company’s strategic decisions.

Refers to the act of overseeing, directing, or handling tasks or responsibilities.

• She has to manage her time well to balance work and family life.
• He was hired to manage the new project team.

Involves overseeing the work or activities of others to ensure that tasks are completed properly.

• The teacher needs to supervise the students during the exam.
• She was promoted to supervise the customer service department.

Used when establishing rules or laws to manage systems, processes, or behaviors.

• The government regulates the banking industry.
• New regulations have been introduced to regulate emissions from factories.

Used when exercising authority or power over something or someone, often to manage or restrict.

• The pilot had to control the plane during turbulence.
• She struggled to control her emotions.

Used when making small changes or modifications to improve something or bring it into the correct state.

• He adjusted his tie before the interview.
• You need to adjust the settings on your monitor.

Used when adjusting or altering something, often in a nuanced or precise way, particularly in reference to signals or tones.

• The technician modulated the radio signal.
• He modulated his voice to keep the audience engaged.

Used when making sure different aspects or elements are in equal or correct proportions.

• She managed to balance her career and family life very well.
• The accountant must balance the books by the end of the month.