law
This term functions as a foundational pillar for societal order, shifting between a rigid set of prohibitions and a flexible framework for justice. It represents the formalization of morality into enforceable mandates, creating a boundary between permissible conduct and punishable offense. In scientific discourse, the term shifts from a social mandate to an immutable description of nature. Here, it signifies a universal regularity that cannot be broken, contrasting the human-made legal code with the absolute constants of the physical universe.
💬Casual Conversation
Ugh, this intro to constitutional law class is literally killing me.
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Meanings
A system of rules created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behavior.
"The country has strict laws against corruption."
A statement of an objective, universal truth or a regular pattern of behavior in nature.
"Newton's law of universal gravitation describes the force between masses."
The profession or study of legal rules and their application.
"She decided to study law after graduating from college."
Examples
I just can't believe this law is still on the books!
Wait, is that actually against the law here?
Listen, the law doesn't care about your excuses!
We need to check the local law before we build.
I'll sue you if you break the law again!
The law is supposed to protect people like us.
You think you are above the law, don't you?
I am just following the law, sir.
Collocations & Compounds
rule of law
the principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law
The rule of law is a cornerstone of democratic societies.
case law
law established by the outcome of former cases
The lawyer cited several precedents from case law to support the argument.
common law
law derived from custom and judicial precedent rather than statutes
Common law evolves over time through court decisions.
martial law
military government involving the suspension of ordinary law
The government declared martial law to restore order during the riot.
criminal law
the body of law that relates to crime
She specializes in criminal law and represents defendants in court.
Phrasal Verbs
lay down the law
establish strict rules
My boss really laid down the law today.
Idioms & Sayings
a law unto oneself
behaving independently of others
He has always been a law unto himself.
Etymology
The word 'law' comes from the Old English word 'lagu', meaning 'thing laid down, ordinance, regulation'. It is related to the verb 'to lay'. Its usage evolved through various Germanic languages, eventually entering Middle English and solidifying its modern meaning related to rules established by authority, whether governmental, religious, or even natural principles.