Rules: meaning, definitions and examples

General instructions or directions that must be followed, often found in games, organizations, or activities.

• The rules of the game are simple
• The school has strict rules about attendance

Official rules or directives made by an authority, often used in legal, corporate, or government contexts.

• The new environmental regulations will affect many businesses
• There are strict regulations governing the use of this equipment

Recommendations or advice on how to do something, usually less strict than rules, often used in professional or official contexts.

• The company provided guidelines on how to handle customer complaints
• The government issued health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus

Fundamental truths or propositions that serve as the foundation for a system of belief, behavior, or reasoning.

• She follows the principles of honesty and integrity
• The scientific principles behind this technology are fascinating

General guidelines or principles that govern behavior or actions, often used in games or organizational contexts.

• The game has strict rules that all players must follow.
• You must abide by the company's rules when using office equipment.

An official rule or law that controls how something is done, often used in legal, health, and safety contexts.

• The new health regulations require all employees to wear masks.
• The financial industry is subject to many regulations to ensure transparency.

A command given by someone in a position of authority, can imply urgency or importance.

• The general gave an order to advance the troops.
• She received an order to appear in court next Monday.

An authoritative instruction or command, often used in formal or bureaucratic contexts.

• The manager issued a directive to complete the project by the end of the month.
• The government issued a directive to close all schools due to the pandemic.

General guidelines or principles that need to be observed in various settings, such as games, workplaces, or social conduct.

• The rules of the game are simple
• Please make sure to read the rules before starting

To act according to a rule, instruction, or principle. This is a general term that doesn't carry the same formality as 'adhere to' or 'comply with'.

• Make sure to follow the instructions on the packet
• Children should follow the school rules

To act in accordance with set rules or regulations, often used in formal or legal contexts. It can imply an obligation or requirement.

• All employees must comply with the new safety regulations
• The company has to comply with environmental laws

To stick strictly to rules, principles, or standards, often requiring a high level of discipline or commitment.

• Scientists must adhere to ethical guidelines during their research
• The staff must adhere to the company policies at all times