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rule

/ɹuːl/

When used as a noun to mean a regulation, it is usually a countable noun (e.g., "one rule," "many rules"). When used as a noun to mean control or dominion, it is often uncountable (e.g., "under British rule"). In legal contexts, the verb 'rule' is highly formal and specifically refers to an official decision made by a judge or authority figure.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is staring at a glitchy mockup while David is in a 'synergy' meeting.
David Smith

Quick pivot: the new brand rule says no gradients. Chop those out.

David Smith
Sarah
Sarah

I'm already underwater with the deck. Just let it slide.

💡
David uses 'pivot' as a corporate buzzword to change direction abruptly. Sarah uses the idiom 'underwater', meaning she is overwhelmed by too much work, to resist his request regarding the new design regulation ('rule').

Meanings

noun

A principle or regulation governing conduct or procedure.

"The first rule of the club is to never talk about the club."

noun

Control or dominion over a people or territory.

"The country flourished under the rule of the new dynasty."

verb (transitive)

To exercise ultimate power or authority over someone or something.

"The monarch ruled the kingdom with a firm hand."

verb (transitive)

To make an official legal decision about something.

"The judge ruled that the evidence was inadmissible."

verb (intransitive)

To be the most important or dominant feature of something.

"In this household, the toddlers rule."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error