top of page

govern,manage,oversee,regulate

eb68db_67fd80692aee4ff395da9b712a55f40e.mp3

govern, follow, obey, submit

command,control,decide,dictate,direct,dominate,preside,reign

rule

IPA

How to pronounce rule (audio)

Dictionary definition of rule

To exercising authority, control, or dominance over others or a particular domain.
"The referee had to rule whether the goal was valid or not."

Detailed meaning of rule

When someone or something rules, they establish and enforce regulations, guidelines, or principles that govern behavior, decisions, or actions. It can involve setting forth a set of explicit or implicit expectations or being in a position of power or influence. 'Rule' can also indicate being in a position of superiority or mastery, as in excelling or prevailing over others. Additionally, it can mean being the prevalent or determining factor in a situation or having a decisive impact. Furthermore, 'rule' can signify the act of making a formal decision or judgment, especially by legal or authoritative means. Overall, 'rule' denotes exercising authority, control, influence, or dominance in various contexts, ranging from governance and leadership to personal conduct and decision-making.

Example sentences of rule

1. The judge will rule on the case tomorrow.
2. It is important to follow the established rules.
3. The king's decree will rule over the land.
4. The referee's decision will rule the outcome of the game.
5. The law of supply and demand will rule the market.
6. The principles of fairness and justice should rule our actions.

History and etymology of rule

The verb 'rule,' signifying the act of exercising authority, control, or dominance over others or a particular domain, has a rich etymology with roots in Old English. It stems from the Old English word 'rēolian,' which meant to control or direct. This Old English term, in turn, has its origins in the Germanic language family, specifically from the Proto-Germanic word ' *rōnōną.' The concept of rule, in the sense of governing or controlling, has ancient roots and is a fundamental aspect of human society. The evolution from the Proto-Germanic 'rōnōną' to the Old English 'rēolian' and ultimately to the modern English 'rule' highlights the enduring importance of authority and control in human interactions and governance throughout history.

Find the meaning of rule

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of rule

1. The company's policy will rule the employees' conduct.
2. The queen's authority will rule the kingdom.
3. The teacher's instructions will rule the students' behavior.
4. The constitution will rule the governance of the nation.
5. The court's verdict will rule the defendant's fate.
6. The guidelines set forth will rule the project's implementation.
7. The principles of ethics and integrity should rule our decisions.
8. The team captain's leadership will rule the players' performance.
9. The regulations will rule the operation of the business.
10. The tradition will rule the way the ceremony is conducted.
11. The principles of physics will rule the behavior of matter and energy.
12. The policy of non-violence will rule the activist's actions.
13. The code of conduct will rule the behavior of the organization's members.
14. The precedent set by previous cases will rule the interpretation of the law.

Synonyms

Quiz categories containing rule

category

Better Words Logo
Multiple Choice icon

Multiple Choice

Opposite Words icon

Opposite Words

Same or Different icon

Same/different

Spelling Bee icon

Spelling Bee

bottom of page