rule of law

noun

1. the principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced; the principle of government by law.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rule of law¹

First recorded in 1500–10

Example Sentences

The foreign ministry said Pakistan was "fully committed to protecting... basic freedoms and the rule of law as enshrined in the constitution", responding to criticism from UN rights chief Volker Turk.

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The president insists that his government respects the rule of law and has not targeted anyone for political reasons.

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It must rest on democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of the rights of our people.

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But it was further evidence of his abundant contempt for the rule of law.

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“The rule of law cannot be carried out if it depends on cronyism,” said Virginia Canter, a former government ethics lawyer who served in the administrations of both parties.

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When To Use

What is the rule of law?

The rule of law refers to the idea that everyone in a society agrees to be governed by and follow the laws of a society.